Your kiddo’s first dental appointment is an exciting milestone, and proper preparation can help set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles! At Just Kids, part of Gettysburg Dental Associates, we’re here to guide you and ensure your child’s experience is positive and stress-free.

Read on to learn everything you need to know to get ready, including when to schedule the appointment, how to prepare your little one, and what to expect during the visit.

When Should You Schedule a Child’s First Dental Appointment?

Children should visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing – whichever comes first. While this may seem young, the recommendation comes from the trusted experts at the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). 

Early dental visits help children become familiar with the dentist’s office, making future appointments less intimidating.

Preparing Your Child for Their Appointment

Preparation can make a big difference in how your child perceives their experience. Here are some helpful tips to get ready:

• Start Early with Oral Care at Home. Before their first dental appointment, introduce your child to oral hygiene. Gently clean their gums with a soft cloth and transition to a baby toothbrush as their teeth come in. Around age 7 or 8, children are usually ready to brush their teeth on their own; there are even apps to make brushing your teeth fun!

• Talk About the Dentist in a Positive Way. Use positive language when discussing the dentist. Avoid words like “pain” or “scary.” Instead, explain that the dentist is a friendly doctor who helps keep their teeth strong and healthy.

• Choose the Right Time for the Appointment. Schedule the visit at a time when your child is well-rested and cooperative. Early in the morning or after nap time work best.

What to Expect During the Visit

We strive to make your child’s first visit to the dentist a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Here’s what typically happens during the appointment: 

• A Warm Welcome. First impressions– dental aside – are everything! As a family-focused practice, we deliver quality care and professionalism through every stage of your child’s visit.

• A Gentle Examination. We’ll gently examine your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw during a pediatric dental exam to check for development and potential issues.

• Cleaning, X-rays, and Fluoride. Performed on children of all ages, pediatric cleanings remove built-up tartar from the teeth and make your child's smile shine. Fluoride treatments may also be applied to children as young as 6 months.

• Answering Your Questions. The first visit to the dentist is an excellent opportunity to ask us questions you may have about your child’s smile.

 Additionally, first visits are a chance to build trust and focus on making your child feel comfortable.

 Quick Tips for a Successful First Visit

1.  Bring your child’s favorite toy or blanket to help them feel secure.

2. Complete any necessary paperwork in advance.

3. Stay calm and positive; your child will sense your emotions.

4. Celebrate the visit afterward with a small reward or fun activity.

Just Kids Is Here for Your Family!

As parents and caregivers, you want the best for your child, including their oral health. So, from your child’s first visit to later milestones like getting braces, the Gettysburg Dental Associates family is here to help.

You can trust that Just Kids understands the needs of children when visiting the dentist. Dr. Stephanie DeFilippo, co-owner of Gettysburg Dental Associates, specializes in pediatric dentistry, ensuring your child’s first appointment is handled with care.

Schedule your child’s first appointment today!