Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Prior to your child’s first visit, we ask that parents try to do a few simple things to help their children form a positive association with dentistry before they even walk through our front door. We also understand that first-time parents can be nervous about their child’s first dentist appointment as well, which is why we are so happy that you’re taking the time to research pediatric dentistry!
To get your child ready for their first appointment, we suggest that parents try to make their twice-daily oral care routines positive and fun. You can take turns “playing dentist” with your child and walk them through what happens during a routine cleaning and exam. Playing with toy dental tools can make them seem less foreign and scary, or using items around the house and pretending they’re dental tools in a safe way can help make dentistry seem more familiar to your child.
Our team might have questions for you regarding your child’s oral habits (thumb sucking, lip sucking or biting, tongue movement, etc.) or other developmental milestones that pertain to teething and nutrition. Before the exam begins, our dentists may show your child some of the louder equipment and let them “practice” using it, in an effort to make them seem less scary. Our Indianapolis’ kids’ dentists are kind and welcoming, and our team understands that having a fun and patient environment is an important part of making your child’s visits positive. It’s also a good idea to bring any important information from your pediatrician with you to the first appointment, in case there is any additional information that we need to know.
