Most dental professionals recommend taking a child to their first dental appointment by about six months of age. Others suggest taking them in by the time the first tooth emerges. Either way, it’s important to get them off on the right foot when it comes to proper care of their teeth. Here are some factors that make the first visit to the dentist important for children.
Comfort Level
The first visit a child makes to the dentist is mostly about helping them feel comfortable with the dentist. The visit should be short, just like their attention span and should only last between 30 and 45 minutes. While there may be some routine care and a basic examination, you want the first visit to be primarily about establishing a relationship with dental professionals so they are comfortable on return, routine visits.
Prevent Oral Health Issues
Early intervention is the key to preventing most oral health issues. By having a dentist examine your child’s teeth early on, many conditions and oral health issues can be prevented. In some cases, specifically, if there are genetics involved, early intervention can help minimize negative effects of gum disease or other oral health conditions.
Establish a Routine
Maintenance and routine visits are essential for ensuring optimal dental health. The first visit to a dentist will help a child understand the importance of the visit and set them on a course of understanding the routine. They will soon come to expect the visits and understand they are to help them care for their teeth.
Develop Oral Hygiene Habits
Dental hygiene should begin early and a first visit to the dentist can play a huge role. Children can be encouraged to practice good oral hygiene from an early age and dentists can help provide support.
