Great oral hygiene must begin in childhood to ensure good health for life. As a parent, you should be diligent about scheduling your child's first visit to the dentist. This first appointment provides lots of helpful advice on home dental care, but it's also key for monitoring dental development and being proactive when problems arise. Here are a few things to consider when preparing for the first visit. 

When Should Children Have Their First Dental Examination?

While not every child experiences the same development timeline, most primary teeth erupt between the ages of 6 and 12 months. When this happens, you should schedule the first dental exam to ensure baby teeth are developing correctly. However, children must have their first appointment no later than their first birthday, regardless if any teeth have come in. 

What Happens During the First Appointment?

If teeth have erupted, the dentist will provide an oral exam and cleaning. The exam will make sure the teeth and gums are healthy but will also check for possible developmental issues, such as impacted teeth. The dentist will then provide information on how to care for your little one's teeth at home. They will likely also emphasize the importance of a good diet, as well as the need for fluoride since it helps build strong enamel. The whole process usually takes about 45 minutes. 

How Can You Prepare Your Child?

Younger kids tend to get fussy around nap time, so make sure you schedule the visit early in the day when they're bright and alert. You can also ask the dentist if you can come for a preliminary visit to get your child acclimated to the office. Take time to think about any questions you might have about maintaining their oral health at home so you can ask during the appointment. 

Finally, maintain a positive, upbeat perspective about the appointment to set a good example for your child. Kids often feed off the energy and mood of their parents, so if you're calm, your child will likely also be calm.

The team at Springville Family Dental Center will make your child's first visit a calm and relaxed experience for all involved. Whether it's your first or fiftieth visit, Dr. Ronderos, DMD, and the rest of the staff make patient comfort a priority. They have been serving residents of St. Clair County, AL, since 1989 and offer a wide range of services, including cosmetic and restorative procedures. Visit the website for more information on how to prepare for your little one's first visit. You can also call (205) 467-6147 to schedule an appointment.