A baby’s first tooth is a milestone in their young lives, and signals that it’s time for their first dentist visit. This can be a scary moment for the child, as they’re both unfamiliar with the environment and a dentist will be poking around in their mouths. With that in mind, there are some tips you to make the trip enjoyable for your child and easier for yourself.

How to Make Your Child’s First Dentist Visit a Great One

Choose a Kid-Friendly Dentist

Choosing the right dentist for your child is essential because this early visit will make a lasting impression. This may be the dental office to serve you for years to come. Select a practice that focuses on kids, has a child-friendly office with toys, games, and books, and where the staff is trained to work with children. Get referrals from other moms and visit a few clinics to get a feel for the right practice.

Read & Talk to Your Child

Select an age-appropriate book about going to the dentist. Talk to them about the appointment in advance and explain that someone will be looking at their teeth. Teach them about the parts of their mouth. Utilize the many games, books, songs, or apps that exist to help teach them about their teeth and taking care of them.

Teach them Oral Hygiene

Wiping a baby’s gums after feeding is a good practice to help remove bacteria, and you can continue that until they have a few teeth. You can start cleaning a child’s teeth as soon as they appear with a soft toothbrush. Toothpaste isn’t appropriate until age 2, and don’t give them water to rinse with until they are 3 or so. Treat tooth brushing time as a group activity, teach them to use the brush, and model good oral hygiene habits for them. Once your child’s teeth touch, you can floss gently. Flossing picks are probably easiest to use.

Have a Positive Attitude

It’s crucial to be positive for the child. Don’t let your own fears or stress about their dentist visit show. Young children will mirror their parents’ emotions and attitudes, so help little ones be curious about their first experience, rather than afraid.

Parkway Family Dental in Kalispell, MT, offers complete family dentistry and procedures such as teeth whitening, crowns and bridges, dentures, laser dentistry, cleanings, and more. Their staff is compassionate, experienced, and uses the most up to date technology to make your experience a great one. Call (406) 752-2372 to make an appointment or visit their website to learn more about staff and services.