Your Kid’s First Dental Visit

 

we love kids final flip

 

It is important to us at MyBracesClinic that your child’s first visit is a happy and pleasant experience.
This sets the foundation right for a healthy mindset towards future dental care appointments.

When should my child see a dentist?

Surprise! It’s earlier than you expect…

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that to prevent dental problems, a  child should go to  the  dentist  by  age  1 or within six months after the  first  tooth erupts. Primary teeth typically begin growing in around 6 months of  age.


What to expect for My Kid’s First Visit?

For children below 7 years old, we have designed a special ‘My Kid’s First Dental Visit’ to target their specific needs.

Your child’s first dental appointment is not a long one.

The goal is to get kids familiar with the sights and sounds of a dental clinic and get to know our Dental Team in a fun and relaxed way.

It is important for us to adapt to the needs of the child and not push or rush into procedures.

Let’s identify potential problems early and customize a dental care program for your child.


What we would like to achieve?

It is important for us to adapt to the needs of the child and not push or rush into treatment.

Our Dental Team aims to do the following:

  1. Count the number of teeth present. Any missing? Any extra? Are the teeth too early or late?
  2. Are the teeth present of the right size, shape and position
  3. Are the teeth crowded or with gaps between them?
  4. Cavity risk assessment and discuss ways to prevent decay
  5. Any obvious dental decay or gum problems?
  6. Are there any abnormal soft tissue structures?
  7. Is the bite relationship of the upper and lower teeth normal?
  8. At home, what is the daily oral care regime like?
  9. Introduce good oral care habits to you and your child.
  10. Identify oral habits early such as thumb sucking or pacifier sucking and discuss ways to wean off.
  11. Understand and answer any worries you may have of your child’s teeth.
  12. Introduce elements of the dental chair 
  13. Perform gentle oral prophylaxis
  14. Schedule the next follow up date and purpose of that visit

How to prepare Before your child’s first visit to the dentist?

 

1. Observe and absorb

A child learns best by observing a parent or an older sibling having a relax and enjoyable experience with our dentist and hygienist. No pressure to have anything done yet, just have them in the same room and absorbing the good vibes. This is an important first step.

 

2. Plan in advance

Identify the most conducive time for your child’s first visit with us. He/ she shouldn’t be too tired or too hungry.

From experience, early morning appointments are best for young children. Parents should also not be in a hurry to leave for another appointment as the anxiety often projects onto young kids.

 

3. Come-By to say Hi

You’re in the neighborhood? Driving or walking past the clinic? Do point out MyBracesClinic to your child. State in a brief, matter of fact and friendly tone that, ‘’We will be coming to this dental clinic for a check-up one day’’.  Even better, step in and we’d love to say ‘Hi!’

There’s no need to go into the details of the checkup because at MyBracesClinic, we use kid-friendly terms to explain dental equipment and procedures! Best is not to confuse or frighten them.

 

4. Be positive 

In your interactions with your child, do NOT use the word ‘Dentist’ as a threat or a punishment.

Do NOT sabotage your child’s first visit to the dentist. There is NO need to project your fear or nervousness about dental treatment onto your child. They will absorb it and this will affect their perception of dentists and hygienist even BEFORE they see us.

Stay positive and neutral. You could say, ‘Sounds fun! Let’s find out together at your dental check up!’’

 

5. Read stories and Watch YouTube videos of First Dental Visits together 

There are many good cartoons on YouTube explaining what to expect at a child’s first dental visit.

Here are some videos to check out together with your child. See you soon! =)