According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), your child should visit the dentist by his/her 1st birthday. The first visit allows the dentist to educate parents about their child’s oral health and also to evaluate the child for early dental issues. Even very young children can be susceptible to dental caries if the teeth are not properly maintained.
You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and their staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less to-do concerning the visit, the better. It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child. Also, be sure not to let your dental anxieties interfere with your child having an enjoyable first visit. Pediatric offices are designed specifically for children, and their staff is specially trained to help ease any fears that the child (and parent) may have.
Menu
