You may think children don’t need to see a dentist until they have a full set of teeth, but in reality, they should start receiving dental care at a much earlier age. A child’s first dentist appointment should occur when their first baby tooth emerges or by their first birthday. If your little one is due for a dental visit, here are a few factors to keep in mind about this necessary check-up.

Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Check-Up

Why Are Early Dental Visits Important?

By scheduling initial check-ups in a timely fashion, you can help start your child’s oral health off on the right foot. Even if not all the teeth have grown in, a pediatric dentist can determine if your child is at risk for common issues like gingivitis, tooth decay, and misaligned teeth.

Apart from detecting and treating dental health issues, these early visits also expose patients to the dentist at a young age. Your child will then grow up familiar with the process and be less likely to have anxiety about check-ups. Through routine visits, young patients can also develop an appreciation for oral hygiene and become more willing to practice teeth cleaning routines at home.

What Should I Expect During My Child’s First Dentist Appointment?

During the appointment, the dentist will do a quick, gentle evaluation of your child’s tooth and gum health. After addressing any potential issues, the specialist can provide tips on infant oral hygiene and how to ease the teething process. They’ll also let you know when to schedule a follow-up visit.

How Can I Prepare for the Visit?

You can take a few steps to make this initial visit a stress-free experience. Try to schedule the appointment at a time when you won’t feel rushed and your child will be well-fed and rested. Consider bringing favorite items along to keep your little one at ease, such as comfort blankets, stuffed animals, and teething rings. To make the check-in process go more smoothly, ask the clinic if there is any paperwork you can fill out ahead of time.

When it’s time to schedule your child’s first dentist appointment, look to the trusted team at Pediatric Dentistry Kahala in Honolulu, HI. Leading dentist Allen K. Hirai, DDS, has over 24 years of experience providing dental care for patients 18 and younger. Recognized for his gentle and friendly approach, Dr. Hirai will help your little one feel relaxed during their check-up and teach them proper oral hygiene. Visit the clinic online to learn more about their services, and call (808) 737-0076 to schedule an appointment.