Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

At Islands Pediatric Dentistry in Gilbert, AZ we recommend that children have their first dental appointment at our office once their first tooth has appeared. If that is not possible, they should see us no later than their first birthday. This may seem quite early to be visiting a dentist however there are quite a few advantages of starting professional preventive dental care at an early age. These advantages include:

• Monitoring of teeth as they erupt.
• Early detection and treatment of dental complications.
• Prevention of dental decay.
• Introduces your child to dental care.
• Decreases risk of dental anxiety.

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

When it comes to new things, most children are a bit skeptical. At Islands Pediatric Dentistry, we find there are various things you can do to prepare your child for their first appointment at our Gilbert pediatric dentist office. These include:

• Read books to your child about dentistry.
• Watch videos online about dental care.
• Talk to your child about the importance of dental visits.
• Practice proper at home dental care.
• Do NOT offer treats, rewards, etc… children typically associate this with something bad.

What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit

Many parents worry about their child’s first dental appointment; however, the first appointment is often extremely brief and comfortable, allowing your child to meet their new dentist. This initial appointment will allow your child to get acquainted with their pediatric dentist in Gilbert, AZ. Once your child is ready to have a dental examination, you can expect:

• Visual examination of teeth, gums and entire mouth.
• Evaluation for signs of decay, infection or disease.
• Evaluation of bite, jaw and potential need for orthodontic treatment.

If agreed upon and needed, a professional dental cleaning may also be performed to thoroughly remove any debris, bacteria and plaque that may be present in your child’s mouth. Professional dental cleanings can be a great way to prevent dental complications down the road. Want to make sure your child’s smile is as protected as possible? Ask about our preventive dental care, including fluoride treatments, dental sealants and even mouth guards.

Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

Haven’t scheduled your child’s appointment with Islands Pediatric Dentistry yet? Don’t hesitate to give our Gilbert, AZ dental practice a call today. We are always happy to see new smiles and look forward to meeting your little one.