Your Child’s First Visit

How to prepare for the first visit

• Have your child practise opening his or her mouth wide so that you can count your child’s teeth. Using a small spoon to pull back the cheek can help children anticipate what the mouth mirror will feel like.
• Read books about visiting an oral health professional with your child.
• Watch a video about going to a dental appointment.
• Avoid talking about negative experiences that you may have had at the dental office as a child.

What to expect at the first visit

• Your child will take a ride in the chair, either on their own or in their parent’s or caregiver’s lap.
• Your child will be given sunglasses to wear so that the dental hygienist can position the light over your child’s mouth.
• The dental hygienist will wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs.
• The dental hygienist will likely use only a mirror to examine your child’s mouth.
• The dental hygienist will show you how to keep your child’s mouth clean
• X-rays are unlikely to be recommended unless there is a significant concern.

At this visit, you will find out:

• if you’re doing a good job of keeping your child’s teeth clean at home
• if your child’s teeth are developing normally
• if there are any issues that need to be addressed

The first dental visit is a perfect time to discuss your child’s eating patterns with your dental hygienist. Any effects from thumbsucking or pacifier use can also be explored, and your dental hygienist will answer any questions you may have. Hopefully after this visit, your child will be comfortable with having others look in his or her mouth.

After the first dental visit, regular appointments should be scheduled at intervals recommended by your dental hygienist. These regular appointments can prevent problems from arising and ensure that emerging issues are addressed promptly.

Your family and your dental hygienist—partners in prevention!

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