The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit a dentist within six months of their first tooth erupting or by their first birthday. Early dental visits to Willowdaile Family Dentistry help establish a dental home, allowing your child to develop positive experiences with oral care. These visits also give our dentists the opportunity to monitor growth and development while providing guidance on maintaining a healthy smile.

What to Expect at the First Visit

A child’s first dental visit is designed to be a gentle introduction to oral health care. Our dentists and team will create a welcoming and comfortable environment to ensure a stress-free experience. During the appointment, you can expect the following:

• A warm welcome from the dental team to help your child feel at ease.
• A review of your child’s medical and dental history.
• A discussion about oral habits, pacifier use, thumb sucking, diet and general development.
• A gentle examination of your child’s teeth, gums and oral structures.
• Guidance on brushing, flossing, fluoride intake and injury prevention.
• Recommendations tailored to your child’s oral health needs, including advice on toothpaste selection, dietary habits and oral hygiene techniques.</li >
• A schedule for future visits to establish a routine for preventive care.</li >
• An opportunity to ask questions and receive expert advice on maintaining your child’s oral health.

Helping Your Child Feel Comfortable

Children often mirror their parents’ emotions, so maintaining a calm and positive attitude can help set the tone for a successful visit. Avoid using words that may cause anxiety, such as “needle” or “drill.” Instead, describe the visit as a fun and educational experience where our dentists and team will count and clean their teeth.

Reading books about visiting the dentist, playing pretend dental checkups and practicing opening the mouth wide in front of a mirror can also help your child feel more prepared. If your child is nervous, reassuring them with a favorite toy or comforting words can provide additional support.

Building a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles

Establishing a dental routine early helps prevent future oral health issues and instills lifelong habits. Regular checkups allow Dr. Aman Masoomi and Dr. Devon Austin to detect potential concerns before they become serious, ensuring your child’s smile remains healthy and bright.

If you have questions about your child’s first dental visit in Durham, North Carolina, or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at 919-479-5800. Our team looks forward to helping your child feel comfortable and confident in their dental care.