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How may I best prepare my child if this is his/her first visit and what is the procedure at this visit?You can prepare your youngster for his/her first visit to the dentist in several ways. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Children may sense a parent's anxiety. Tell your child that we will "count" and "take pictures" of his/her teeth. Do not use any fear-provoking words, such as "hurt," "drill," "pull," or "needle." Avoid statements like the "doctor will not hurt you." (If someone says to you, "Don't think of a banana," what is the first thing you think of? A banana! It's the same with the word "hurt.") We will thoroughly explain each of our procedures to your child in terms of that he/she can understand. Be assured that we will treat your children as caringly as we treat our own.
X-rays will be taken as necessary to ensure a thorough and comprehensive examination. Subsequent appointments for any necessary dental treatment will be scheduled as needed. When dental treatment has been completed, your child will be placed on a periodic exam schedule and you will receive a reminder card when a visit is due. At the conclusion of your child's exam, the doctor will meet with you to explain her findings and recommend a course of treatment, if necessary. Before you leave the office, our financial secretary will discuss fees and payment options. Your goals as a parent and our goals as dentists are the same - to keep your child's teeth and mouth in good health and to make that process pleasant for everyone. What is your philosophy of treatment?Our emphasis is on prevention, both in the dental office and at home. We recommend regular periodic exams and cleanings, and thorough home care routines. Home care includes limiting sweets, brushing two times a day, flossing at least once a day, and sometimes a topical application of fluoride. Because the primary teeth form the basis of the adult dentition, we will do everything possible to preserve the integrity of your child's dentition while fostering a healthy and relaxed attitude toward dental care.
A Child's First Dental Visit Fact SheetWhen should your child first see a dentist? You can take your child at a younger age, but experts recommend taking him or her within 6 months of the first tooth coming in (erupting), or by about 12 months at the latest. At this time, the dentist can give you information on:
Prepare your childIf possible, schedule morning appointments so young children are alert and fresh. Prepare a preschooler or older child for the visit by giving him or her a general idea of what to expect. Explain why it is important to go to the dentist. Build excitement and understanding. Prepare yourselfDiscuss your questions and concerns with the dentist. Remember that your feeling toward dental visits can be quite different from your child's. Be honest with your view of the dentist. If you have dental anxieties, be careful not to relate those fears or dislikes to your child. Parents need to give moral support by staying calm while in the dental exam room. Children can pick up parents' anxieties and become anxious themselves. Prepare the dentistAt the first visit, give the dentist your child's complete health history. For a restoration visit, such as getting a cavity filled, tell the dentist if your child tends to be stubborn, defiant, anxious, or fearful in other situations. Watch how your child reacts. Many parents are able to guess how their child will respond and should tell the dentist. Certain behaviors may be linked to your child's age:
The first visitYour child's first dental visit is to help your child feel comfortable with the dentist. The first dental visit is recommended by 12 months of age, or within 6 months of the first tooth coming in. The first visit often lasts 30 to 45 minutes. Depending on your child's age, the visit may include a full exam of the teeth, jaws, bite, gums, and oral tissues to check growth and development. If needed, your child may also have a gentle cleaning. This includes polishing teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains. The dentist may show you and your child proper home cleaning such as flossing, and advise you on the need for fluoride. Baby teeth fall out, so X-rays aren’t often done. But your child's dentist may recommend X-rays to diagnose decay, depending on your child's age. X-rays are also used to see if the root of a jammed baby tooth may be affecting an adult tooth. In general, it is best that young children not have dental X-rays unless absolutely needed. The second visitJust like adults, children should see the dentist every 6 months. Some dentists may schedule visits more often, such as every 3 months. This can build comfort and confidence in the child. More frequent visits can also help keep an eye on a development problem. Protect your children's teeth at homeHere are some tips to protect your children's teeth:
What do we hope or must accomplish during the first visit of the child to the dentist?At the first visit, the dentist will examine your baby's mouth to make sure everything is growing and developing properly and will check for dental caries, tongue ties, and any signs of injuries.
How do I prepare my toddler for dentist?Break out your child's toothbrush and have them sit in a chair. Pretend you're the dentist and count and brush their teeth. Talk through what you're doing and why oral hygiene is so important. Then, swap roles or let your child have a turn being the dentist with a stuffed animal.
When should a child get their first teeth cleaning?Though your child will, ideally, be visiting the dentist regularly starting at the age of 1 or so, the first dental cleaning will probably take place a little later than that, when more or most of the baby teeth have arrived. The first cleaning usually takes place during the toddler years, between 12 and 36 months.
What does dentist do for 3 year old?Your dentist will briefly inspect your child's mouth for signs of decay. They'll also examine their bite, jaw alignment, and gums. Depending on your child's level of comfort during the visit, a hygienist may briefly clean their teeth. Some children undergo a fluoride preparation.
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