What Happens During a First Dentist Visit for a Toddler?
Taking a toddler to the dentist for the first time can be a nerve wracking experience. Your toddler may feel afraid or anxious of this new environment. They also may not like having a stranger looking in their mouth.
With that in mind, dentists usually try to keep a toddler’s first visit low key. They don’t want to scare the child, instead they want to get them used to having a dental check up. So what happens during a first dentist visit for a toddler?
When Should a Toddler See a Dentist?
The recommended age to see a dentist for the first time is at 1 year old, or 6 months after the first tooth erupts. While that age is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, most children do not see the dentist until they are older.
In the US, the average age for a first dentist visit for a toddler is 2.6 years old, one and a half years later than recommended. Many parents think their toddler does not need to see a dentist until they have more teeth, but seeing a dentist early has many benefits.
Having a dental check up early allows the dentist to get used to the dental chair and also educate parents on their child’s oral health.
Although they are not permanent, a toddler’s baby, or primary teeth are very important. These teeth directly affect speech development, proper chewing and nutrition, and having enough space for permanent teeth to come in.
The recommended age to see a dentist for the first time is at 1 year old, or 6 months after the first tooth erupts.
How Often Should a Toddler See a Dentist?
It is recommended for children to see the dentist for a dental check up every 6 months. This 6 month schedule will continue into adulthood, unless the dentist thinks they should be seen more often. Some people see the dentist every 3-4 months.
A child should see the dentist for a dental check up every 6 months.
What Happens During a First Dentist Visit for a Toddler?
A first dentist visit for a toddler usually isn’t too eventful. The dentist will take this opportunity to get the child used to sitting in the dental chair and do a quick examination of the mouth and teeth.
Depending on how your child is feeling, they may sit in the dental chair, or they may need to sit in your lap. The dentist or dental hygienist will then examine the child’s teeth, gums, and jaw. If the child allows it, they will quickly and gently clean your child’s teeth and offer to answer any questions you may have.
Some things they may discuss with you are:
- How to clean the mouth and teeth at home
- Infant feeding practices
- Baby bottle tooth decay
- Teething
- Pacifiers
- Finger sucking habits
- Fluoride
The appointment usually takes 30-45 minutes. X-rays are not usually taken on young children unless there are signs of tooth decay.
It is normal for young children to be attached to their parents and not want to be separated from them during their appointment. However, by the time they are 4 years old, they should be fine to sit by themselves.
Overall, the dentist wants the first dentist visit for a toddler to be a positive experience, so the child will feel less apprehensive next time.
Tips for Taking Your Toddler to the Dentist
- Consider taking your child to a pediatric dentist – They specialize and have lots of experience working with kids.
- Before the appointment, read books or role play with your toddler to teach them about the dentist.
- Use positive language.
- Bring a comforting toy for your child.
- Stay relaxed – Your child will be able to pick up if you are feeling anxious.
- Offer lots of praise – Congratulate your toddler for being brave and opening their mouth for the dentist.
- Plan something fun afterwards.
Summary
Toddlers should see their dentist starting at 1 year old, and continue seeing them every 6 months. The first dentist visit for a toddler consists of a quick cleaning and examination followed by questions and education pertaining to teething, thumb sucking, infant feeding practices, and more.