WHEN TO TAKE YOUR KIDS TO THE DENTIST

“AT WHAT AGE DO KIDS GO TO THE DENTIST?”

We are so glad you asked! This remains one of the most common questions among parents and caregivers. Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry follows the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). The AAPD advises that every child should receive an initial dental examination within six months of the first tooth eruption or by the child’s first birthday.

“WHY SO EARLY?”

While it is important for children to seek routine care with their pediatricians at an early age, it is just as important to establish and seek routine care with a dental provider by the age of one. This facilitates an opportunity for children, parents, and caregivers to become comfortable in the dental setting at an early age. Dental caries is the most common chronic disease of childhood; however, it is preventable! At Camp Smile, we strive to educate families on effective brushing techniques and good dietary practices to help prevent and fight cavities!

Most would agree that familiarity builds confidence. By introducing your child to “the dentist” at an early age, you are establishing a foundation on which neither fears nor tears can encroach. At Camp Smile Pediatric Dentistry, we truly are redefining the norm for the pediatric dental experience so that current and future generations of children and adolescents have a positive outlook on dental health and value its importance from an early age.

“WHAT MAY I EXPECT FOR MY CHILD’S FIRST DENTAL VISIT?”

When you arrive for your child’s first dental visit, a staff member will greet you at the check-in desk. If you have not already completed our registration packet, including the health history form, you will need to do so prior to being seen by our clinical team. We recommend planning to arrive ten to fifteen minutes early to ensure everything needed is on file. We emphasize the importance of having all forms completed so that we can dedicate the appointed time to your child’s unique needs.

A friendly clinical team member will greet you and your child prior to introducing your child to his or her special dental chair. For children under the age of three, we may utilize a smaller, more private room to limit distractions and to provide a less intimidating environment. We will review oral hygiene, dietary practices, and habit cessation techniques and answer any questions you may have about your little ones! Depending on the age of your child and our exam findings, we also may complete a cleaning and obtain indicated radiographs.

We do not always expect a child to complete everything at the first dental visit, and we will talk with you about your specific goals as well. Often, examinations for young children and infants are completed in a knee-to-knee position to ensure a safe and thorough examination. Parents are always invited to stay with their children for each visit, so you do not need to worry about whether or not you will be able to remain with your child for visits.

Our goal is to ensure each visit is positive, informational, and FUN for everyone involved. Never hesitate to ask any questions or express concerns you have for your child. We look forward to meeting you soon! Explore our website to learn more about pediatric dentistry, Camp Smile, and our incredible team.