First Dental Appointment | Things to Know

Here are the most important things to know and prepare for a child’s first dental appointment, whether they're a toddler or slightly older. A smooth first visit sets the tone for a lifetime of positive dental experiences.

⭐ Key Things to Be Aware Of for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment

1. The First Dental Office Visit Should Happen Early

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth erupting.
Early visits help catch issues like decay, tongue-tie, or oral habits before they become bigger problems.

2. It's Mostly About Comfort, Not Procedures

A first visit is usually:

A “happy visit” to introduce them to the sights and sounds of a dental office
A short exam of teeth, gums, bite, and habits
Possibly a toothbrush cleaning or fluoride, depending on comfort level
A chance to answer parents’ questions

No drilling, no long procedures — the focus is confidence and trust.

3. Prepare Your Child With Positive Language

Avoid words like hurt, shot, needle, drill, scary.
Try instead:

“The dentist is going to count your teeth.”
“They might tickle your smile with a special toothbrush.”

Kids read your energy — stay upbeat!

4. Bring the Right Items

Bring:

Child’s insurance card
Pacifiers, bottles, or anything related to habits you want guidance on
A list of questions (thumb sucking, brushing challenges, etc.)
Their favorite toy or comfort item (helps reduce dental anxiety)

5. Expect the Dentist to Review Habits

They will likely discuss:

Brushing technique
Fluoride use
Thumb sucking
Teething
Diet and juice intake
Bottle/sippy cup habits
Injury prevention

These tips help parents as much as the child.

6. Crying Is Completely Normal

If your child cries or refuses, it’s OK.
Pediatric and family dentists deal with this every day.
The dentist will use:

“Tell-show-do” techniques
Kid-friendly explanations
Lots of encouragement

You’re not being judged — the goal is to build trust.

7. Choose the Right Dentist

Look for:

A provider experienced with children
A calm, child-friendly office
A dentist who explains things well and welcomes parents in the room

LADD Dental Group is family-oriented, and our team already excels at helping kids feel safe.

8. Be Aware of Possible Early Problems

The dentist will watch for:

Baby-bottle tooth decay
Early cavities
Tongue/lip ties
Enamel issues
Bite problems
Delayed eruption

Catching these early can prevent expensive problems later.

9. Expect Guidance on What’s Next

The dentist will outline:

How often to return (typically every 6 months)
Fluoride recommendations
When X-rays will start
How and when to begin flossing

10. Make It a Celebration

Kids respond best when the visit feels like a milestone.
Ideas:

“Today you get to meet the tooth doctor!”
Plan a small reward afterward (park, sticker, special snack).
Take a photo — make it fun!

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