What
to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit

The first dental visit is a special milestone to celebrate with your child. Our Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry team is dedicated to working alongside you to lay the foundation for healthy, beautiful smiles that last a lifetime. We look forward to welcoming you and your little one into our Jet Set Smiles family. 

When Should Your Child First See a Dentist?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics both recommend scheduling your child’s visit when the first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. Establishing a dental home and instilling good dental habits right from the start will ensure your child’s oral development stays on track and lower the risk of dental disease. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are all about ensuring our young patients enjoy healthy smiles into adulthood. 

Preparing for Your Child’s First Dental Visit

It’s important to take the time to prepare for your little one’s first dental visit to ensure a positive experience. Talk to your child, explain what to expect, and make sure you use a happy tone and manner. Explore books together or watch videos about visiting the dentist, even if your child is not verbal yet.

Remember to schedule the first visit when your child is more likely to be cooperative, usually after naptime. Time it to when your child is well fed and rested, and fill out the new patient forms at home before your appointment to focus on your child on the day of the first visit. 

Make sure to remain calm and upbeat because your child will pick up on any anxiety or unspoken fears. Let us know if there’s anything we can do to make your little one’s first visit a stellar experience. 

What Happens During the First Dental Visit?

Dr. Patel will greet you and your child, take your child’s medical and dental history, and ask about current concerns. He will conduct a gentle exam to ensure your little one’s teeth and gums are healthy and the overall oral development is on track. 

Our team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry will review proper brushing and flossing techniques, smile-healthy nutrition, teething, and oral habits, such as thumb sucking or pacifier use. Depending on your child’s age, we may recommend a gentle cleaning and a fluoride treatment. We only take dental x-rays when necessary to uncover any underlying concerns. 

Like adults, most children need to see the dentist twice yearly. Dr. Patel will discuss a schedule that is appropriate for your child. At Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are proponents of prevention and early detection of dental problems to keep our young patients smiling their best. 

Preventive Dental Care Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

Dr. Patel and our dedicated team at Jet Set Smiles Pediatric Dentistry strive to ensure your child’s first visit and every following one are positive and stress-free. We use kid-appropriate language and do everything possible to ensure your little one is as comfortable as possible. We care about our young patients – and it shows. We invite you to call 480-284-5076 to schedule your child’s appointment or request one online today!