Are you planning to take your child to their first dental visit?

Children’s dental visits are as important as their pediatric visits. The earlier they become accustomed to being at the dental office, the more likely they’ll develop a positive impression of it.

As a parent or guardian, you might be worried about how your child will respond to their first dental appointment. It’s okay to be concerned, but remember that your child may pick up on your anxiety.

As you prepare your child, prepare yourself too. Here are things you can expect from a children’s dental appointment.

1. It may be more like playtime. 

Here at Southdown Dental in Mississauga, Ontario, we do our best to make every visit as pleasant as possible for children and their guardians. 

We introduce ourselves to our young visitors and show them the tools we use at the dental office. We may also have them ride the dental chair. If your child allows us, we may take a quick peek into their mouth. But if not, that’s okay. 

As long as your child is having a great time, we’re happy with that. Our goal is to help them look forward to future visits. 

• Flexibility. 

We take your child’s lead on how the first dental visit unfolds. It may be more of an interview between you and the dental team.

The dentist talks to you about your child's eating habits, medical conditions, or any specific concerns you may have. Unless it’s urgent, your dentist doesn’t usually proceed with any treatment. 

Establishing rapport with your child and winning their trust is the more important goal. 

• You’re free to ask dental care-related questions. 

You may have specific concerns, such as getting your child to brush or your child showing symptoms of a cavity. Dental visits are a perfect opportunity to discuss these.

It also helps to prepare a questionnaire before your visit to avoid forgetting important points. Let your dentist know if you have dental fears or anxiety. You and your family dentist can work together to manage these feelings so children won’t pick them up. 

Our dental team provides moral support to parents or guardians like you so you can stay calm during your child’s dental appointments.

• Your child may have a gentle cleaning. 

This isn’t guaranteed, but if everything works smoothly, the dentist may also be able to clean your child’s teeth. They get rid of plaque build-up and stains, and examine areas that are prone to decay or cavities. 

Your dentist may also show you how you can brush and floss your child’s teeth more effectively. They may also discuss things that you can expect as your child’s mouth develops. 

During appointments, your child may sit on the dental chair or your lap. We may be able to see older children while you wait in the reception area. 

Expect children’s dental appointments to vary

Your experience for each of your children's dental appointments or for every visit may be different. Some children are thrilled to have their teeth looked at, while some may be more anxious or uncooperative. 

We understand you may feel frustrated if your child is refusing to be seen. But not to worry, we’re here to guide you and patiently care for your child.  

If you have more questions about preparing for children’s dental appointments, we’re happy to help. We love children, and it’s always a joy to have them here at Southdown Dental in Mississauga, Ontario.

Call us today at (289) 724-3005. Weekend appointments are available for your family's convenience.

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