What to expect at your child’s first pediatric dental visit
Your child’s first pediatric dental visit age 5 months to 12 years old will be both fun and informational for the patient and you as the parent! The ADA recommends that a child be taken to the dentist by 1 year or within 6 months of the eruption of a first tooth. Not only does this help promote good oral hygiene with the patient and the parent, but helps to establish a proper oral care routine.
Our Dental Locations are kid friendly!
At your child’s first dental visit they will be led to the treatment area, where there are bright pictures on the walls. The dental chairs are child size and colorful which is much less intimidating than at a general dentist office. Everything is friendly and geared towards children of all ages. Please see our Gladstone Dental Office pictures and our Liberty Dental Office pictures.
Patients get to pick their own Toothpaste!
Before they start the cleaning, each child is encouraged to pick a toothpaste flavor that will be used. After the assistant has finished cleaning the teeth, the dentist will check for cavities by “counting” the teeth. They will then go over proper care for maintaining good oral hygiene with the patient and the parent. Such as brushing and flossing techniques.
For more information on brushing and flossing, please see how Dudley the Dinosaur brushes and flosses his teeth.
Young Patients receive a goody bag after the appointment!
After the exam the dentist will then discuss their findings and treatment options with the parent. The parent will then either schedule an appointment for treatment or their next dental cleaning with the receptionist.
At the end of the appointment your child will receive a goody bag with a new toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste. They will also be rewarded with a coin which can be used to buy a prize from the toy machine.
Questions about the first visit? Email or Call us!
For more information regarding your child’s first dental visit please go to American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry website or call our Dental Office at (816) 548-3400. You may also see the following video called, “Your Baby’s First Dental Visit.”