Taking care of our hygiene and health is something that we do on a daily basis. Although it seems self-explanatory to us, when we have children, we have to help them get in the routine of taking care of their health as well. One of the ways to do this is to help them take care of their oral health, which should start at an early age. For those of you that feel nervous about taking your children to their first dentist appointment, here’s what you need to know.
When to Take Your Child to Their First Appointment
It’s recommended to take your child to the dentist when their first tooth starts growing in, which is usually between 6 to 12 months old. By getting them in the habit of going to the dentist at a young age, it will get rid of any fear that they have about going to the dentist. In addition, it’s important to start early, as the dentist will check for any early signs of dental problems.
Preparing Your Child for Their First Visit
There are different ways that you can help your child feel comfortable during their first appointment. To start, it’s best to schedule their appointment at a time when they are usually in a good mood. For instance, if you schedule the appointment during their designated nap time, they’ll probably be grumpy. In addition, it is encouraged to bring a toy with you, as it will help them stay calm during the check up.
Many parents have also reported that regularly checking their child’s teeth at home helped their children ease into their first appointment. This is because if you regularly inspect their mouth at home, they will get used to the feeling and routine.
Choosing the Right Pediatric Dentist
Instead of choosing the first dentist that you find, do your research and find the best children’s dentist in Wyckoff. The difference between a regular dentist and a pediatric dentist is that pediatric dentists have specialized training working with children. This not only means that their offices are kid-friendly, but that they have experience with first-time visits as well.
If your child has started growing in their first tooth, then it’s time to book an appointment with the best children’s dentist in Wyckoff. At Pediatric Dental Associates, we have years of experience with first-time visits, so we’ll be happy to answer any of your questions or concerns.
