Make a success of your child’s first dental visit

Your child’s first dental visit is a hugely important step towards making them feel comfortable and secure in what is a new environment

The old notion of the dentist as someone to be feared is thankfully long gone, but that doesn’t mean that everyone goes to their local practice completely free of nerves. These nerves generally derive from difficult trips to the dentist in childhood, or from exaggerated scare stories heard through the grapevine.

That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your child’s first dental visit is as comfortable and stress-free as possible, so they can be properly introduced to an environment that is both safe and friendly.

How do children’s teeth differ from adults’ teeth?

Children’s teeth differ from adults’ teeth in size, colour and consistency. Generally, children’s teeth are smaller, thinner and whiter than adult teeth, which are bigger, darker, more dense and a little more yellow. Given the size and state of children’s teeth, it is important they get the care they need as early as possible to ensure their oral and dental health are as good as can be.

When should your child see the dentist for the first time?

Your child’s first dental visit should happen when the first tooth appears. This generally occurs when they are six months old.

What can you do to make the first visit as easy as possible?

There are a number of things you can do to ensure that your child’s first dental visit goes as smoothly as possible.

First of all, go at a time that suits both you and your child, to make sure it’s a stress-free visit. Make sure they have had a sleep so they’re well rested, and also that they’re not hungry or cranky in any way, such as first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. If you’re rushed or stressed, your child will pick up on that and probably won’t be happy as a result.

You’ll want to give your child a decent bit of time to acclimatise to what is a new and strange environment for them! Dental practices are very bright and clean, and it’s important your child isn’t rushed in and out of the practice too quickly.

Parents are present at all times during the child’s first dental visit to put them at ease, and to hear about what the examination will entail, as well as take-home tips. The dental examination usually involves counting the child’s teeth to see how many have appeared.

Dentists are also looking for a growth pattern, to establish a baseline for what’s present and seeing if there are any tell-tale signs of issues down the line that they can advise on to prevent them becoming a problem.

Overall, the visit should be fun and enjoyable for the child, so that next time they visit, they aren’t scared or apprehensive.

What take-home messages do you need?

After your child’s first dental visit, you will gain some valuable insights into brushing techniques, some oral and dental health advice in general and dietary advice so your child isn’t eating or drinking too many sugary foods and drinks. This is particularly important as it will hopefully establish good dental habits for life.

Your dentist will want to closely monitor your child’s dental health, progression and growth in the months and years to come. If you follow these simple tips, you will greatly increase the chances of both a successful first dental visit for your child, as well as subsequent visits to come.

If you’re looking to book an appointment in one of our practices around the country, we can offer you the help and care that you need. Dental Care Ireland practices around the country open late, on weekends and during lunchtime, so make sure you consult our opening hours for more information