A child’s first visit to the dentist is a huge milestone for them. A child’s early experiences at the dentist will influence how they view dental care. If you plan ahead then your child will build confidence, avoid dental fear and build good habits. However if you take your child at short notice due to a sudden toothache then they may become fearful.

If you are prepared with your child then they will have a positive experience. Knowing when to take them, how to talk to them about the appointment, what will happen in the appointment and how to help with any nerves.

1. Take Them When They’re Young

Pediatric dental associations advise you take your child to the dentist as soon as possible.

  • First tooth rule – Take your child to their first appointment when their first tooth has come through or by their 1st birthday, whichever comes first.

  • Detect early cavities – Your child’s pediatric dentist can spot any early signs of cavities, enamel problems or jaw development problems.

  • Create a dental home – Taking your child early will help them get used to their ‘dental home’ and make them feel safe.

  • Prevent emergencies – Taking your child regularly will prevent any painful emergencies.

2. Choose a Time of Day

Taking your child when they are well rested, fed and relaxed will make them cope with new sensory experiences. This will prevent any melt-downs.

  • Take them in the morning – Toddlers will be full of energy and happy in the morning.

  • Don’t take them when they usually nap or in the late afternoon when they’ll be tired and grizzly.

  • Give them a light snack – Give them a light snack before leaving so they won’t be hungry and grizzly.

  • Leave early – Leaving early will mean you won’t be in a rush.

3. Choose a pediatric dental clinic

Family dentists treat all ages, however pediatric dental clinics are set up to cater for young children.

  • Pediatric dentists – Pediatric dentists have 2-3 extra years of specialist training. This training is focused around psychology, development and behavior.

  • Child friendly clinic – Pediatric clinics have bright waiting areas, toys, books, TVs in the ceiling and smaller dental equipment.

  • Kind and patient staff – Hygienists and dental assistants are experts at using kind words, games and positive reinforcement.

  • No strong chemicals or loud noises – Specialist clinics won’t have any strong chemicals or loud noises which can scare young children.

4. Use positive and simple language

Telling your child what will happen will help them know what to expect. Use simple, positive and age appropriate language.

  • Tell them what will happen – Tell them the dentist will be counting their teeth, cleaning their smile and showing them how to keep their teeth strong.

  • Use fun words – Avoid using any scary words. Instead use fun words such as ‘counting your teeth’, ‘magic light’ and ‘tooth tickler’.

  • Read story books – In the days leading up to the appointment read story books or watch educational cartoons about having a friendly visit to the dentist.

  • Play dentist at home – Play dentist at home with your child. Use a torch to count their teeth. Let them count their favorite stuffed animal’s teeth.

5. Don’t pass on your fears

Many adults have some fears or bad memories around visiting the dentist. Be careful not to pass these on by using certain words.

  • Avoid using words – Don’t use any words such as shot, needle, drill, hurt, pain or pull.

  • Don’t promise – Don’t say it won’t hurt as this contains the word hurt which will make them suspicious and anxious.

  • Be relaxed – Talk about the appointment in a casual manner. It’s important to treat it like any other errand.

  • Don’t over explain – Keep it simple. Let the dentist team explain any clinical details.

6. Know what will happen

As a parent it can cause anxiety if you don’t know what will happen. Knowing what will happen will help you stay calm.

  • Medical history – The dentist team will ask about your child’s medical history, diet, fluoride intake and oral habits such as thumb sucking.

  • Knee to knee – The dentist will sit face to face with you. Your child will lean their head on the dentist’s lap whilst sitting on your lap.

  • Examination – The dentist will gently examine your child’s teeth, jaw alignment, bite, gums and soft tissues.

  • Cleaning – If your child is comfortable the hygienist will clean your child’s teeth using a soft cloth or gentle rotating tool.

  • Fluoride varnish – The dentist will quickly apply fluoride varnish to your child’s teeth. This will strengthen their enamel.

7. Be comforting and positive

Being there will give your child a safety net. Being a positive and active parent will help them feel confident with new sensations.

  • Hold their hand – Be close by and reassure them with touch and a calming voice.

  • Take a comfort item – Let them take their favorite blanket, stuffed animal or toy with them.

  • Praise them – Praise them with specific words when they open their mouth, sit still or let the dentist count their teeth.

  • Reward them – Immediately after the appointment reward them with a fun non-food treat. For example you could take them to their local playground.

8. Build good habits

A successful first appointment will help your child build good habits. Your dentist will give you individual advice.

  • Clean gums/teeth – Clean your infant’s gums with a soft damp cloth. Once their first tooth has appeared use a soft bristled brush with a small smear of fluoride toothpaste.

  • Brush their teeth – Brush their teeth twice a day for 2 minutes. Once they have developed the motor skills they can brush their own teeth (usually around 7/8).

  • Avoid sugary drinks/snacks – Avoid giving sugary drinks such as juice, fizzy drinks or sticky snacks.

  • Book next appointment – Book your child’s next regular appointment 6 months in advance.

Essential tips for a successful first appointment

  • Book their first appointment by their 1st birthday or when their first tooth has appeared.

  • Choose a morning appointment so they will be well rested, happy and cooperative.

  • Choose a specialist pediatric dental practice.

  • Read story books and play dentist at home using simple and positive language.

  • Don’t use any scary words such as hurt, shot or drill.

  • They will have a knee to knee examination. You will hold your toddler comfortably.

  • Take their favorite stuffed animal.

  • Be enthusiastic with your praise.

  • Book regular preventative appointments every 6 months.

FAQs

Will my child cry or refuse to open their mouth?

It is completely normal for toddlers to cry. Pediatric dentists are used to children crying and refusing to open their mouth. They will be patient, use a calm voice and gentle techniques. Never discipline your child for crying.

Should I stay in the room?

Yes most pediatric practices encourage parents to stay in the room. This will help your child feel more comfortable, you can watch the examination and speak to the dentist about any home care.

Are baby teeth really that important?

Yes! Baby teeth are very important. They allow your child to chew properly and get the right nutrients. They help with speech development and keep space in their jaw for their permanent teeth. If their baby teeth fall out too early due to cavities their permanent teeth will move into a crooked position.

How much toothpaste should I use?

Under 3 years old use a small smear of fluoride toothpaste. This should be about the size of a grain of rice. Between 3-6 years old use a small pea sized amount.

By being careful, prepared and positive with your child’s first appointment it will set them up for a lifetime of confident and healthy smiles. Choosing a specialist pediatric practice, playing dentist with them, being calm and providing gentle reassurance will turn what could be a scary event into an exciting milestone. Working with your pediatric dentist from an early age will protect their baby teeth, spot any issues early and create excellent oral health habits.