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It's recommended that children pay their first visit to the dentist at the eruption of their first tooth or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. It pays to have a good idea of what to expect, especially if your child experiences anxiety about dental care at home. Here’s a closer look to help you feel more comfortable before the appointment. 

What Does a Child’s First Dentist Visit Consist Of?

1. A Brief Dental Examination

Your child’s dentist will want to assess their dental development so far. This entails a brief exam, during which the dentist will look into your child’s mouth for any possible issues.

This exam is beneficial in a few different ways. First, it will inform you of any possible concerns so they can be rectified before they become more pronounced. Second, it will allow your child to get acclimated to the experience, which may decrease anxiety in the future. 

2. Questions About Your Child’s Oral & General Health 

dentistBe prepared to discuss your child’s general health, including any medical conditions, medications, family history, and other issues that may impact dental care. The dentist will also ask about current oral habits as well, such as thumbsucking, pacifier usage, and bottle feeding. Some of these habits can have a detrimental effect on oral development, and your dentist will provide advice on how to wean your child off bottles and pacifiers. 

3. A Discussion About the Importance of Dental Care

Finally, the dentist will emphasize the importance of brushing and flossing as your child’s baby teeth come in as well as the possibility of fluoride treatments, which are used to boost the strength of tooth enamel. 

Diet is another important topic to discuss. Kids who eat lots of sugary treats and drink soda have a greater risk of developing cavities, so forming healthy habits at a very young age is beneficial.

 

Selecting the right dentist for your child will also decrease anxiety and ensure a bright, healthy smile all the way through childhood. At Kid Smiles, patients as young as six months can receive exams in a relaxed, child-friendly environment. The staff goes above and beyond to ensure all patients feel welcome, whether your child is having a teeth cleaning or a more advanced procedure, such as a cavity filling. Visit the website for the full listing of treatments or call (336) 885-5437 to schedule an appointment in High Point, NC, today.

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