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In most cases, children should see a dentist by the time their first birthday arrives or their first tooth erupts — whichever comes first. Yet, even if these milestones have passed by and you haven’t had your child in for an appointment yet, you can still begin laying the foundations for a lifelong commitment to oral wellness by scheduling a visit in the near future. Naturally, your child may be a bit nervous with this new and unfamiliar experience. Here are a few simple tricks you can use ahead of time to keep them at ease.

How to Get Your Child Ready for Their First Dentist’s Appointment

1. Get Them Used to Brushing

Having a toothbrush, dental mirror, and any other foreign objects in their mouth will be a familiar experience for your child if you’ve already been brushing their teeth at home. Before their baby teeth erupt, you can also begin an oral care routine by gently rubbing their gums with a clean washcloth. This will enforce the concept of dental hygiene being an integral component of self-care from a very young age. It may also alleviate any uneasiness when the dentist counts their teeth and checks on dental development during their first appointment.

2. Schedule for a Convenient Time

dentistParents know which times of day their baby or toddler is most likely to be alert and ready for interaction. Your child might be open to a new experience after a snack and nap, for example. This time frame is a good window of opportunity for scheduling their first dentist’s appointment, as they’re less likely to be cranky from hunger or tiredness. If possible, you might also consider arriving early so your child doesn’t feel rushed and can get used to the new environment, including the waiting room.   

3. Give the Staff a Heads Up

When scheduling the appointment, alert the office staff to this being your child’s first appointment. If your child is typically hesitant around strangers or nervous about new experiences, let them know. During the appointment, you can also share information related to your child’s oral wellness with the dentist or hygienist, including thumb-sucking or use of pacifiers and any medication your child is currently taking. Ensuring all parties are informed can help facilitate a smooth appointment.

 

If you’re seeking a family-friendly dentist’s office where patients of all ages are made to feel welcome and at ease, look to Four Corners Dental Group. With two locations in Alaska, this accommodating practice offers comprehensive dental care services for the whole family, including preventive care to keep teeth strong and decay-free. Learn more about the types of procedures they offer by visiting their website, or call (907) 258-3384 for the Anchorage office, or (907) 376-2790 for Wasilla.

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