Your Child's Important First Trip to the Dentist
The Children's Dental Center, along with the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), recommends bringing your child to the dentist by the age of one year. The earlier your child comes to the dentist, the better it will be for your child.
Bringing your child at this age, allows us to evaluate your child, discuss proper oral hygiene techniques with your child, and to start building a foundation of trust.
Making the Dentist Fun
Make your child's first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. If old enough, your child should be told about the visit and that we are here to explain all procedures and answer any questions.
Try to not use words that could get your child nervous such as needle, shot, pull, drill, or hurt. We use words that convey the same message, but in a way that is pleasant and non-frightening to your child.
Let Us Earn Your Child's Trust
You may stay with your child during the first appointment. However, during future exams and treatment, we suggest you allow your child to let the dentist and staff provide care, because we can usually establish a better rapport with your child when you are not present. Our purpose is to gain your child's confidence and not be afraid of coming to the dentist.