When your child’s first tooth breaches the gums, it’s time to take them to their first dentist appointment. The initial visit is usually more of a walk-through than a full-scale appointment: it’s designed to educate you on proper pediatric dentistry and get your child comfortable in a new environment. Learn more about what to expect in the following guide.

Education

The dentist will teach you how to care your child’s teeth and gums. Use a soft-bristled brush to gently clean their teeth with a small amount of toothpaste, about the size of a grain of rice.

If your child uses a pacifier, your dentist may recommend starting to wean them off it by age 2 or 3 because it can affect the alignment of incoming teeth. 

The dentist will also go over nutrition to promote enamel growth and development, like recommended baby formula and a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, and protein.

Brief Exam

During the first visit, your child will meet the dentist and staff. If they’re quite small, you may want to have them sit in your lap in the dental chair while the dentist examines them.

The dentist will check your child’s teeth for bite problems, injuries, or any disorder in the gums or jaw. They may polish or brush the teeth and assess the need for fluoride.

When your child approaches age 5 or 6 and has more teeth, they’ll be ready for X-rays and more in-depth treatment.

When it's time for your child's first visit, bring them to Keiki Dental in Ewa Beach, HI. Run by a board-certified pediatric dentist, the practice treats children ranging from infants to 15-year-olds. They also specialize in helping anxious children get through visits with sedation treatments. Learn more about their services on their website, or call (808) 680-9411 to make an appointment.