First Visit Establishing good oral habits from the very beginning is one of the best gifts you can give your child. A trip to the dentist should feel like a normal part of life, not something to be feared. That's why it's recommended that you bring your little one in to the dental office before their first birthday. At Wildhorse Dental, we strive to make every visit - starting with the very first one - comfortable and stress-free for both you and your child. What to Expect During Your Child's First Dental VisitA few preparations will help make your child's initial dental appointment go smoothly. First, there will be some paperwork to fill out. If possible, complete it ahead of time and either send it in advance or bring it into the office with you. If you haven't managed to do this beforehand, plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early to allow time to complete paperwork without delaying your appointment. Another important consideration is health. If your child (or you) has a cold or any signs of illness, please call to reschedule. The waiting room will likely have other children, and no one wants to risk spreading germs. Just as you wouldn't want your child exposed to someone else's cold or illness, extending that same courtesy helps keep everyone healthy. While waiting for your appointment, be mindful of the words you use. Avoid mentioning things like "hurt" or "needle," as even if your child is too young to understand, other children in the room may hear and become anxious. Creating a positive and relaxed environment is key to ensuring a pleasant dental experience for everyone. What Happens During the AppointmentThe first dental visit is usually quick and simple. The dentist will examine your child's mouth to ensure that everything is developing properly. By the time of this first appointment, your baby will likely have a few teeth, and the dentist will check for any early signs of issues. A significant portion of the visit will be dedicated to educating parents. Both parents are encouraged to participate whenever possible. The dentist will discuss how nutrition impacts oral health, demonstrate how to care for your baby's emerging teeth, and let you know what signs of dental problems to watch for as your child grows. Questions are always welcome. This is your opportunity to learn how to set your child on the path to lifelong dental health. Building a Positive Relationship with the DentistAt Wildhorse Dental, we understand that a lifetime of healthy smiles begins in childhood. Our goal is to ensure that your child grows up knowing how to care for their teeth and, just as importantly, never developing a fear of the dentist. A positive first experience can make all the difference! Don't wait until your child is walking or talking to schedule that first dental checkup. We recommend bringing your baby in for their initial visit after they have developed their first tooth, or by the age of one. Call 636-537-0447 today to set up an appointment and take the first step toward building great oral health habits that will last a lifetime. By starting early, you're helping your child create a healthy, happy smile they'll be proud to show off. |
Office HoursMonday: 8:00am-5:00pm Tuesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Wednesday: 7:30am-4:00pm Thursday: 7:30am-3:00pm Fri‑Sun: Closed |
