When Should You Make Your Child’s First Dentist Appointment?

It can be tricky to determine the right time for your child’s first dentist appointment. On one hand, you don’t want to wait too long and have them develop cavities or other dental problems. But on the other hand, you don’t want to take them in too early and have them subjected to uncomfortable procedures for no reason. So, what do you do?

In this blog post, we will discuss when you should make your child’s first dentist appointment. We will also provide some tips on how to make the experience positive for both you and your child!

You Should Bring Them in By 6 Months – 1 Year

Generally speaking, the Canadian Dental Association recommends that you bring your child in for their first dentist appointment within 6 months of their first tooth breaking through, or at least by one year of age. This may seem young, but it is important for a number of reasons.

Why Do I Need To Take Them In So Early?

First and foremost, taking your child in for a dental appointment early on will help to establish healthy oral hygiene habits from the very beginning. They will learn that going to the dentist regularly is important for their overall health, and it will become a normal part of life for them.

In addition to that, early appointments can help identify any potential problems before they become serious. This is especially important for children who may be at higher risk of developing cavities or other oral health issues, such as those with a history of allergies, asthma, or diabetes. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications down the road.

Finally, early appointments can also help to get your child used to being in the dentist’s office. This can make future check-ups easier and less stressful for both you and your child. Many children (and adults, for that matter!) develop some type of anxiety or fear of the dentist, so it’s important to start off on the right foot.

Tips For Making The Visit Positive

When you finally make that first dental appointment for your child, there are a few things you can do to make the experience positive. Here are just some of them:

  • Talk to your child beforehand and explain why they need to go to the dentist
  • Let them choose which dentist they would like to visit, if possible
  • Bring a favourite toy or blanket to make them feel more comfortable
  • Ask the dentist questions if you have any concerns
  • Consider rewarding them after the appointment. A treat or a fun activity should do the trick!

The Bottom Line

Taking your child in for their first dentist appointment can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be. By following the tips above and making sure to bring them in by 6 months – 1 year of age, you can ensure that your child has a positive experience and starts off with good oral hygiene habits. Good luck!

Ready to make your child’s first dentist appointment? We’d be happy to help! Click here to get in touch with Shelburne Village Dental today.

Our patients will always be our first priority. We are devoted to creating an exceptional experience with every patient that walks into our office.

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