It is recommended that you bring your child in for a visit within six months of the eruption of their first tooth— usually around their first birthday. Since decay can occur in even the smallest of teeth, the earlier your baby visits us, the more likely it will be to prevent future problems. We look for any signs of early problems with your baby's oral heath, and check in with you about the best way to care for their teeth.
Baby’s First Visit — Make it Fun!
• Try playing “dentist.” Count your child’s teeth, then switch roles and let him or her count yours. Make the exercise fun and explain that this is essentially what the dentist will do.
• Explain other things that may happen at the dentist's office, using non-technical language. Don't try to explain X-rays, for instance. Simply say, "The dentist might take some pictures of your teeth with a special camera".
• Take your child along with an older brother, sister or friend when they go for a routine exam or cleaning. It’s a good way to familiarize your little one with the dentist's office.
• Treat the appointment as routine.
• Be sure to advise your dentist about any special needs or medical problems, such as allergies or bleeding disorders.
• Let your child bring his or her favourite stuffed toy along.
Please discuss the positive aspects of dentistry with your child. Convey good feelings about dental visits as being part of growing up. Prepare your child in advance that someone is going to look at and ‘count’ their teeth. To gain a child's confidence and trust, use child-friendly terms and simple explanations to describe dental instruments and procedures. By putting your child in the proper frame of mind, you can make the first visit enjoyable and positive.
We recommend that both mom and dad come to their child’s first visit if possible. We encourage you to stay with your child during the initial examination. Please do not be upset if your child cries.
Young children are often afraid of anything new and strange, and crying is the normal reaction to that fear. Following the dental examination, any findings and recommendations will be discussed. We will evaluate your present home preventive care routine and exchange ideas that will be helpful to your child's dental health. There will be plenty of valuable information given about how to effectively clean baby’s teeth, nutrition and, and what to expect as your child develops. We will inform you when you should start using fluoridated toothpaste or if your child can benefit from other sources of fluoride.
We look forward to meeting your family. Your visit is an opportunity for all of us to become acquainted so we can develop a positive relationship of trust and confidence that will last a lifetime.