Expectations During Your Visit to a Local Pediatric Dentist

Taking your toddler to the local pediatric dentist for the first time can be intimidating. Be prepared and know what to expect so that you can help your child feel comfortable. This blog will give you the information you need to make your experience go smoothly.

Choose the Right Moment

It is recommended that parents schedule their child’s initial dental visit when the first tooth appears or when they turn a year old, whichever comes first. Encourage your kid to establish a consistent dental care routine of brushing their chompers twice daily. That way, when they head to their initial appointment with the dentist, they’ll show off a gleaming set of teeth. It’s a smart idea to get them into the practice of oral hygiene early on, as it will set them up for success in the long run.

Relax, Dentists Set a Fast, Informal Environment

At your toddler’s first dental appointment, the dentist will meet your child and try to make them feel at ease. They may talk to them and ask them about themselves, and may even invite you to stay and hold your toddler as they take a look at their mouth. This visit will be a positive experience so your toddler will feel comfortable and relaxed when returning for future appointments. Instead of having your toddler come straight into the exam room, some dentists may prefer to let them get comfortable in the waiting room first. The dentist and their staff will introduce themselves and chat with your toddler to help them feel more relaxed. Then the dentist will briefly assess your child’s mouth to check for cavities or other issues. They’ll also look at their bite, how their jaw is aligned, and check their gums for any signs of trouble. A hygienist may quickly clean your child’s teeth, depending on how cozy they are with the visit. During the visit, they may also apply a specialized fluoride treatment to help keep the teeth clean and prevent cavities.

Make It Fun

Maintaining a positive attitude regarding local pediatric dentist visits for your child is important. Try to avoid conveying any negative feelings you might have about dentists, as this could cause your child to develop anxious feelings about going to the dentist. Instead, focus on how enjoyable and important it is to take care of your teeth. Pediatric dentists often try to make their waiting rooms enjoyable for kids. They might play entertaining movies or have exciting surprises after the appointment. Additionally, they can adjust the dentist chair to be more like a fun ride than a medical visit. Capture this momentous occasion in your child’s life with photos to preserve the memory and remind them of how far they have grown. During the appointment, help your little one feel more comfortable by engaging with the dentist and staff so they can have a pleasant experience.

Sealing the Deal

As your little one grows and hits exciting milestones, it’s important to celebrate and recognize them. Following the steps outlined above, you can find the perfect practice to make your child’s visit comfortable and calm. Remember to be as relaxed and stress-free as possible, so your little one doesn’t pick up on any anxiety you may have!

Book Your Kid’s Appointment with Us Today

At Deschutes, we recognize that toddlers and preschoolers are amazing patients with personalities ranging from cautious and shy to gregarious and curious. We make every visit to our office a positive and enjoyable experience through a supportive, friendly atmosphere for our young patients, no matter their personalities. Schedule your appointment with your local pediatric dentist at (541) 389-3073!