What To Expect at Your Child's First Dental Appointment

As soon as a tooth breaks through your child’s gums, it’s time to start paying mind to dental care. Most kids should see a dentist within six months of that first tooth’s appearance, according to the American Dental Association, or no later than their first birthday. 

Getting your child on track with dental visits at this young age can set the stage for long-term dental health, while helping your child get used to the visits as they grow older. 

At Cherry Family Dental in south San Jose, California, Misty H. Henne, DMD, provides exceptional dental care for kids of all ages. Read on to learn more about children’s dental needs and what to expect from the first appointment.

Your child’s first appointment

Your child’s first dental exam focuses quite a bit on preventive care, while also checking for any abnormalities or concerns. During this first appointment, Dr. Henne spends time with you, going over important steps that promote positive dental hygiene in children, such as:

• How to properly brush and floss your child’s teeth
• Fluoride needs
• Cavity prevention
• Dietary recommendations
• Dental milestones to expect
• Teething signs and management techniques

If your child engages in an oral habit such as sucking their thumb, Dr. Henne discusses effective strategies to minimize any related complications. 

During the exam itself, a dental hygienist might clean your child’s teeth, depending on factors such as how many teeth they have and their stage of development. Dr. Henne may order X-rays as well. 

Throughout all of this, we use especially gentle techniques and focus on helping your child feel as emotionally and physically comfortable as possible.

Making the most of your child’s dental care

Many steps can help ensure that your child gets the most out of their dental care, both at home and at our office. Here’s what you can do:

• Schedule your child’s appointments at times that best suit their moods, or earlier in the day for most kids
• Start brushing early to stave off plaque buildup and cavities
• Use a clean, damp washcloth to wipe baby gums after feedings
• Use an infant toothbrush at least twice a day once teeth appear
• Use a tiny amount of infant-safe, fluoride-free toothpaste
• Stay positive and encouraging

You can also enhance your child’s dental well-being by cultivating and maintaining healthy oral hygiene habits yourself. Modeling good behaviors and attitudes around brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist can go far toward inviting the same in your child.

To learn more about your child’s dental health needs or schedule their first appointment, call us at Cherry Family Dental or request an appointment through our website. We would love to help you and your child get on the path to a lifetime of dental well-being.