What to Expect
At Your Child's First Dental VisitYour Child’s First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child sees a dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts but no later than their first birthday.
The first visit typically starts with a thorough review of the child’s dental and medical history and a comprehensive examination. If necessary, dental x-rays will be taken at this visit. The dentist will check your child’s teeth for bite issues and make sure that teeth are erupting properly. The dentist will also make sure that teeth and gums are healthy. Depending on the age of your child, a dental hygienist or assistant will clean your child’s teeth and review good brushing and flossing technique. The dentist may also discuss a tooth-healthy diet and any habits, such as thumb sucking or frequent snacking. Of course, you and your child will have plenty of time to ask questions and get to know our team.
At Dentistry for Kids and Adults, we want to ensure that your child enjoys a pleasant and a comfortable visit with us. We use “Tell-Show-Do” technique to help your child understand what to expect next. This means that we first explain what we will do in simple, non-threatening words. Then, we’ll show them by demonstrating what we will do. Finally, we will do what we showed. We also use positive reinforcement and distraction technique to keep kids engaged and motivated.
How to Prepare a Child for the First Dental Visit
Your child’s early dental experiences will shape his or her attitude towards dental care for life. There are a few things you can do to prepare your child for a successful and enjoyable visit. Use positive language when talking about going to the dentist and explain what to expect in simple words they can understand. You can role-play counting teeth or read age-appropriate books together that introduce them to what will happen in the dentist office. Avoid using scary words, such as needle, drill, pull, or hurt. Answer their questions honestly but in general terms. If you are not sure how to answer a question, suggest that you can ask the dentist together. Most importantly, if you are relaxed and positive about this experience, you will help your child to stay positive too.
My whole family has been coming to this practice for a few years now, and I love Dr. Dorfman and Dr Lee’s honest approach and professionalism. My girl actually loves going to the dentist, so that goes to say how good her experience is. Your whole staff is awesome, very pleasant and accommodating, and super professional! Thank you!
18635 Soledad Canyon Road, Suite 108
Canyon Country, CA 91351
(661) 299-2525