Your baby is hitting new milestones every day, and his or her first dental visit is another one to include in the baby book!
Your child’s first dental visit should take place no later than the first birthday. Being proactive about your child’s dental health today can help keep his or her smile healthy for life.
The first dental visit is a very exciting time for a child and their parents. The first step begins at home, with you. We would like to offer a few tips that will ensure that your child's first visit will be a positive one. We recommend that you try to ignite a feeling of positivity and excitement about their first visit. Explain to them that we will be counting and shining their teeth and that we may need to take pictures of their teeth with x-ray vision just like Superman.
Explain to them that they will watch movies, play video games and will receive a gift bag full of goodies containing a new toothbrush and other prizes for being a good helper.
During the first dental visit our staff will review the health history of the child with you. Your child will be introduced to our dental team and allowed time to become more comfortable before the examination with the doctor.
Parents are always invited to stay with their child during all dental visits. Our office always uses the tell, show, do technique to introduce new things to patients. The dental assistant will go over oral hygiene instructions including brushing and flossing techniques appropriate for their age. They will, if there is cooperation, show the patient where the dental plaque is on the teeth by making it a different color than the normal white color of the teeth and will attempt to shine the teeth with a dental polisher as long as they can do so without upsetting the patient.
Depending upon need, x-rays are taken to determine your child's present dental condition. Following the exam by the dentist, our findings and recommendations will be discussed. You will be given a chance for questions with the dentist and before you leave, the front desk will give you an estimate of the cost of treatment if treatment is needed.
Preventative infant dental care is a win-win situation for doctors and patients because it helps eliminate fear of the dentist and implements dental health habits that help prevent decay. We would be happy to set up a first dental visit in our office for your child!
Moms and Dads can prepare for the first visit, too. Before your first visit, please fill out the new patient forms online. If you prefer to fill out the forms at the appointment, please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. Are you concerned that your child is teething, sucking on his or her thumb or using a pacifier too much? Make a list of questions and Dr. Pettinato and our staff will be happy to advise you.