Dental visits for children

WHEN SHOULD I TAKE MY CHILD FOR THEIR FIRST DENTAL VISIT?

We like to see children starting from around 12 months of age or as soon as the first two teeth have erupted. Dental problems can start from as early as 9 months. The sooner we can identify if your child is at risk (or not), the better.

We find it’s best that children get used to the idea of coming to the dentist with a parent as early as possible. With our fun ‘hero’ character, PB, we make the visit fun so your child will want to come back to see PB.

We adopt a totally non-threatening posture with children. Usually, we ask that you hold your child on your lap. That way, he or she feels secure – especially important when they’re at the age of ‘separation anxiety’.

When the child feels secure, we have more time to do a full examination, checking for bite alignment, that all teeth are through, and none of them show signs of decay.

We’ll also give you some guidance on how to care for your child’s teeth and how to teach your child how to brush his or her own teeth when old enough.

During the visit, you’ll have plenty of time to ask us any questions about oral health and your child.

Before you bring your child for the first visit, we suggest that you use some or all of these strategies to make sure the first visit is a success – for all of us.

FOR A SUCCESSFUL FIRST DENTAL VISIT:

• Make a morning appointment so your child isn’t tired and anxious
• Talk at home about going to the dentist and make it an adventure
• Let us know if the visit is your child’s first visit to a dentist
• Let us know if your child has medical or psychological issues

PLEASE DON’T:

• Scare your child by showing anxiety
• Worry if your child cries a little during the examination. Very young children may be at an age where they don’t interact with strangers too well. Your child will grow more confident and we win them over soon enough.