What to Expect: Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

A child’s first visit to the dentist will influence their oral health, possibly for the rest of their life. It is very important to us that this is a positive experience. The first appointment, or “happy visit,” should occur between the ages of two and three.

Parents can help to make this a positive experience:

• Make the appointment for earlier in the day when the child is well-rested.
• Tell your child about the appointment, but try not to build it up in the child’s mind as a major event.
• Remember that children will pick up on your anxiety, so remain calm and neutral and allow our hygienists and dentists to do their best to establish trust with your child!

At the first visit, the child will get to explore the dental chair and meet the dentist and hygienist. The dentist will examine the child and the hygienist will polish the child’s teeth. Dental x-rays may or may not be taken. We will evaluate the child’s oral hygiene and provide instructions accordingly.

Much of this “happy visit” will revolve around keeping the child comfortable and entertained. Some children will tolerate more than others. Sometimes getting a child in the chair and meeting the dentist is all they can handle in the first visit.

Parents are welcome to accompany their child during visits. A child’s behavior, good or bad, is often influenced by the presence of the parent; because of this the parents may be asked to remain in the waiting room. Many children will be more in tune with the dentist or hygienist when the parents are not in the room. If you are present for your child’s treatment, please try to remain a neutral party and realize we are working very hard to establish trust with your child. Our ultimate goal is to provide care in a safe and cooperative environment.