Your Child’s First Dental Visit

A Guide To Your Child’s First Dental Visit

It’s important for your children to visit the dental clinic early to ensure they are off to a good start with their oral health. Their first dental visit at FirstBite is an extremely important step for your child’s life long oral health.

Your First Visit to FirstBite Dental

Often a first visit is simply a time to acquaint your child with the clinicians and the practice. As a parent, you should reassure your child that the visit is not scary or something about which to be afraid of. Short, successive visits can build the child’s comfort with us.

Research shows that children who visit the dentist regularly are more likely to maintain a good oral health and avoid cavities. The Australian Dental Association (ADA) recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth erupts, emphasising early intervention as. key to long-term dental health.

What Happens During the Dentist First Visit?

Depending on the child’s age, a dental visit will involve:

• a gentle but thorough examination of the teeth, jaw, bite, gums and oral tissues to monitor growth and development and observe any problem areas
• a gentle cleaning, which includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar build-up and stains
• small in-the-mouth x-rays to determine if there are any developing holes
• large out-of-the-mouth x-rays to determine the position of all teeth, and any potential underlying issues
• a demonstration of how to properly care for your child’s mouth and teeth at home with an assessment of the need for fluoride or tooth mousse
• nutritional counselling
• preventative treatments such as fissure-sealing

Tips to Prepare Your Child’s for Their First Dental Visit

Preparing your child for their dental visit can help soothe anxiety and make the experience more enjoyable. Simple steps such as discussing what to expect, reading children’s books about dental visits, or practicing good oral hygiene at home can significantly ease their fears.

Additionally, explaining the role of the dentist in a funny way can help children view their visit positively. 

Want an Orthodontic Opinion?

An incorrect bite can lead to long-term dental problems. We can assess if your child needs early orthodontic intervention during their growing years or if they want their teeth straightened during their teenage years.

Our clinicians at FirstBite Dental will answer any questions you have and will make you and your child feel comfortable throughout the visit.