Child’s First Visit to Dentist Age

According to a recent study conducted by Morpace, Inc., the majority of children in America do not visit the children's dentist raleigh nc until they are over two years old, which is much older than is recommended. According to the AAPD, children should visit the dentist before or by the age of one year old or within six months of their first tooth eruption. Most primary teeth will begin to grow in at six months of age.

The most common reasons cited by parents for not bringing their child to the dentist sooner is that they believe their child is too young or that there are not enough teeth that have grown to warrant the need for a visit. Lack of insurance was also listed as a reason for delaying this visit.

By scheduling a visit to the dentist early, you can help ensure that your children keep their teeth in place until they fall out naturally. Primary teeth are important for several reasons, including the following:

  • Play a critical role in speech development
  • Help with proper chewing and maintaining good nutrition
  • Save space for permanent teeth
  • A healthy smile plays an important role in children’s sense of self-worth and confidence

It is important for parents to be aware that taking care of your children’s baby teeth will set them up for a lifetime of good oral health. By taking the time to become educated on proper techniques for brushing and flossing and taking their children to the dentist at an early age and on a regular basis, children will have a much better chance of developing good oral habits and avoiding oral health issues.

Preparing Your Child for Their Appointment

Children around the age of one are too young to experience anxiety related to a dental visit, but as children grow older, it is common for them to experience some uncertainty or nervousness when having their teeth examined.

There are several things parents can do to help alleviate this anxiety, including the following:

  • Educate yourself and your child. There are many resources online and books available that can provide information about why dental health is important and what is involved in having your teeth examined.
  • Make it a game. Parents who “play dentist” with their children can help relieve anxiety and make their children more comfortable with the process involved with examining teeth.
  • Take your child with you to your next appointment. By bringing your child with you to your next examination, you can model what it means to be a good patient and reinforce that there is nothing to be afraid of.
  • Be mindful of what the best time to schedule an appointment is. It is important to schedule your appointment at a time when your child is well-rested so they can be comfortable and relaxed.

What Will Happen at the First Visit?

The first visit to the dentist is typically very short and is primarily designed to have your child be introduced to their dentist in a calm and friendly way. The process will vary from clinic to clinic, but oftentimes dentists will ask the parent to hold their child in the dentist chair while the exam is performed. Other dentists may prefer parents wait in the reception area so they are able to develop a personal relationship with your child. Be sure to discuss which approach you are most comfortable with for you and your child.

The examination will consist of your dentist examining your child’s teeth and their bite and looking for any signs of issues related to the jaw, gums, or oral tissues. If necessary, a cleaning will be performed and fluoride treatment may be discussed.

Once this is complete, the dentist will talk to the parents and child about oral health issues. They may cover a range of topics, including the following:

  • Developmental milestones
  • Proper oral hygiene practices
  • Cavity prevention
  • Fluoride treatment
  • Teething
  • Oral habits (tongue thrusting, thumb sucking, lip sucking)
  • Proper nutrition
  • Schedule of dental checkup visits

It is important to be aware that you will have to complete health and medical information forms at this first visit, so be sure you have the required information when you come.

More about Pediatric Dentistry : What is a Pediatric Dentist?