A big step in instilling lifelong dental care habits in your child is getting them used to visiting the dentist. Children should see a pediatric dentist for the first time between the ages of 6 months and 1 year, or whenever their first tooth comes in. Prepare for your child’s first visit by familiarizing yourself with what it entails.

A Guide to Your Child’s First Visit to The Pediatric Dentist

1. Have a Short Appointment

The first visit to the pediatric dentist rarely takes long. Depending on the dentistry center you select and the age of your child, you may be asked to sit on the side or hold the young one in your lap during the visit. Either way, the dentist will speak to your child in a friendly and comforting manner. Pediatric dentists receive special training to help relax young patients. The dentist will examine your child’s teeth and gums for decay and inflammation among other issues before providing teeth cleaning services. The child’s bite will also undergo examination.

2. Receive Dental Care Advice

Your visit may be short, but you will still have the opportunity to ask as many questions as you want. The dentist may recommend fluoride treatment in addition to oral hygiene and nutrition tips. Also, expect information about pacifier use and habits such as thumb-sucking that can interfere with healthy development.

3. Fill Out Medical Forms

Bring any pertinent health information about your child to the appointment since you will fill out medical history forms before, during, or after the exam. You will also set up a teeth cleaning and checkup schedule with the receptionist according to your dentist’s recommendations. Try to make appointments in the morning since children are generally the least cranky and tired then.

If you need to schedule your child’s first dental visit, contact Pedodontic Associates. The accredited children’s dentistry center offers two convenient locations on Oahu and one on Maui, and has served Hawaii’s children of all ages for more than 25 years. Call (808) 735-1733 for the Honolulu office, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, or (808) 877-0066 for Kahului to schedule an appointment with a pediatric dentist. You can also learn more about procedures and services online.