Our office, as well as the American
Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends that your child visit the
dentist by his/her 1st birthday. However, Dr. Jay feels two years of age
is sufficient unless of course there is a TRAUMA or you (the parent)
sees something that concerns you. You can make the first visit to the
dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the
visit and told that the dentist and their staff will explain all
procedures and answer any questions. The less to-do concerning the
visit, the better.
When the child is at an early age, the first visit can be pleasant and uneventful, introducing your child and the parents to the dental office. Emphasis is on the developmental assessment of your child’s oral health. Caries (tooth decay) or developmental disturbances can be managed early. Fluoride varnish may be applied to counteract beginning decay on newly erupted teeth.
It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as "needle", "shot", "pull", "drill" or "hurt". The office makes a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.
We invite you to stay with your child
during the initial examination. During future appointments, we suggest
you allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental
experience. We can usually establish a closer rapport with your child
when you are not present. Our purpose is to gain your child's confidence
and overcome apprehension. However, if you choose, you may come with
your child to the treatment room. For the safety and privacy of all
patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the
reception room with a supervising adult.
The first visit will be about 30 minutes long and will include:
- Meeting the staff and becoming oriented to the dental office.
- A thorough visual examination.
- Any necessary x-rays.
- If necessary, a diagnosis and/or treatment plan will be discussed.
Five Steps for Baby's First Dental Visit
|
Step 1 Clinical Examination |
• Complete medical
history • Knee-to-knee exam with guardian • Note clinical dental caries • Soft tissue irregularities • White-spot lesions, tongue anatomy • Enamel decalcification, hypoplasia • Dietary staining |
|
Step 2 Caries Risk Assessment |
• Bottle or
breast fed at night on demand • Non-water in bedtime bottle • Decalcification/caries present • No oral home care • Sugary foods, snacks |
|
Step 3
Diet Counseling for Infants |
• No juice or milk
in bed • Sippy cups can encourage decay • Avoid sugar drinks, sodas • Encourage variety and a balanced diet • Low-sugar snacks • Fluorides – topical and systemic |
|
Step 4
Oral Home Care for Infants |
• Brush/massage
teeth and gums 2x daily • Small, soft toothbrush • Tiny amount of toothpaste, with Fluoride • Guidance on thumb sucking, pacifier • Response for home accidents, trauma |
|
Step 5
Future visits |
• Based on Risk
Assessment • At age one year • Two years if delayed in development |
We strive to make each and every visit to our office a fun one!
