Our pride and joys deserve the best of the best when it comes to their well-being. We choose the best preschools, public schools, extracurricular activities, babysitters, doctors, and anything else that pertains to the best quality for our children. Parents often ask friends or other family members for advice on almost everything parenting-related, seeking the best recommendations, especially when it comes to medical care.
Babies grow quickly, each new development fleeting and being replaced by the next. Before you know it, your baby starts teething, leaving you wondering whether to visit the dentist when their first tooth breaks through or when they have their full set of teeth. Rhoades Family Dentistry is here to help guide you through your child’s dental journey. Continue reading to learn what parents should know about their child’s first dental visit so you can know what to expect when the time comes.
When to Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit
One of our most frequently asked questions here at Rhoades Family Dentistry is about a child’s first dental visit, specifically when they should first see the dentist. Most of our patients have been in our care for decades, and we love nothing more than meeting their sweet babies! We’re thrilled to provide dental care for the entire family from infancy through elderly dental health.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should have their first dental visit at 12 months old. However, some patients schedule their child’s first dental visit closer to 24 months or when they believe their child is ready. Babies can start cutting teeth as early as three months old, with new teeth popping up shortly after. Most babies have several baby teeth that have cut through their gums by 12 months old, making it the perfect time to schedule their first dental visit. A family dentist, like Rhoades Family Dentistry, cares for the entire family, regardless of age, and we have plenty of patients who are infants or around 12 months.
What to Expect During Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Your child’s first dental visit doesn’t need to be scary! Rhoades Family Dentistry cares about our patients regardless of age, and we treat everyone with the utmost respect and provide exceptional care. We understand bringing your child to the dentist for the first time presents a lot of unknowns, but below is a guide on what you can expect during your child’s first dental visit:
We’ll Begin by Getting to Know Your Child
We care about every patient who walks through our doors and go above and beyond to treat them like family. Before we look at their teeth, we’ll get to know your child in an exciting, playful environment, helping them to feel comfortable at their first dental visit. Their first visit is intended to be a “Happy Visit” to encourage a positive experience and encourage them to continue on their oral health journey.
We’ll Discuss and Encourage Healthy Dental Habits
At Rhoades Family Dentistry, we’ll discuss and encourage healthy dental habits to set the tone for your child’s lifelong dental care. We want them to have a positive, playful experience and encourage the parent or guardian to brush their child’s teeth (or tooth) regularly, and discuss when to introduce flossing and when to schedule their next dental exam. We try to focus on getting to know our patient rather than immediately inspecting and cleaning their teeth.
How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth Beyond the First Visit
So what happens after your child’s first dental visit? Again, we’ll discuss and encourage healthy dental habits at the first dental visit and share recommendations for caring for your child’s teeth as they age. Below are some great tips for caring for their teeth:
- Adopt and maintain an excellent oral health routine that includes brushing twice a day and flossing
- Wean your child off their pacifier to avoid the effects of long-term pacifier use
- Focus on a healthy diet and nutrition, avoiding foods and drinks high in sugar
- Choose age-appropriate toothbrushes and toothpastes, opting for soft-bristled toothbrushes
- Encourage them to drink plenty of water
- Schedule regular dental appointments
Caring for your child’s teeth beyond the first visit starts with your family dentist, who can establish and discuss healthy dental habits. We encourage families to make dental check-ups a family event, making it routine for the entire family, so they adopt healthy oral habits. We encourage you to schedule dental check-ups for your child every six months.
Schedule Your Child’s First Dental Visit Today
Rhoades Family Dentistry offers dental care for the entire family, including routine cleanings, preventative maintenance, fillings, and more. Dr. Hahn and Dr. Driscoll care about your family’s oral health and are here to recommend the best oral hygiene practices for your entire family, including Invisalign and braces, cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and more.
Book an appointment today by scrolling up and clicking “BOOK AN APPOINTMENT” on the top left of your screen or by calling (913) 782-8900. We look forward to serving you by providing excellent dental care, giving your family healthy smiles, and assisting with your child’s first dental visit!
