One of the best ways to ensure your child’s oral health is well taken care of is by taking your child for their first dental visit at an early age. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children have their first dental visit within six months of their first tooth appearing or by their first birthday.
But what exactly can you expect during your child’s first dental visit? Read below to learn how to prepare and what to expect during your child’s first dental visit. Call our Woodland Hills dentist at 818-491-7294 to schedule your dental appointment. We proudly provide dental services to Woodland Hills, including the surrounding areas of West Hills, Canoga Park, and Winnetka.
Before your child’s first dental visit, make sure to prepare by doing the following:
When you arrive at our Woodland Hills dental office, your child will meet our Woodland Hills dentist and dental team. Dr. Chaves will do a comprehensive oral exam to check for issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, or other common dental problems seen in children. They’ll also check your child’s bite and look for developmental issues.
After the exam, the dentist or hygienist will clean and polish your child’s teeth. X-rays may be taken if necessary to get a more detailed look at your child’s teeth and jaw. If recommended, a fluoride treatment will also be administered to help protect your child’s teeth from cavities.
The dentist or hygienist will also provide oral health education and tips for parents to help keep their child’s teeth and gums healthy. This may include information on proper brushing and flossing techniques, as well as dietary recommendations to reduce the risk of cavities.
It’s normal for children to feel anxious or scared about their first dental visit. As a parent, you can help ease your child’s fears by preparing them beforehand. Talk to your child about what to expect during the visit and answer any questions they may have. You can also read books or watch videos about dental visits to help your child feel more comfortable.
If your child is still anxious, you can ask our dentist about techniques to help them cope, such as distraction techniques or using sedation. Don’t hesitate to ask the dentist if you have any questions or concerns about the visit.
After the first dental visit, it’s important to continue regular dental checkups for your child. We’ll provide recommendations on how often your child should visit based on their needs. Ongoing dental care and preventive measures such as regular brushing and flossing, a healthy diet, and fluoride treatments can help ensure your child’s oral health stays in shape.
X-rays may be taken during your child’s first dental visit if the pediatric dentist needs a more detailed look at your child’s teeth and jaw. However, not all children need X-rays during their first visit. Your child’s dentist will make a recommendation based on their individual needs.
If your child has a cavity, the dentist will need to fill it to prevent further decay and damage to the tooth. The filling material used may vary depending on the location and size of the cavity, as well as your child’s individual needs.
At Dr. John Chaves’ Woodland Hills, CA dental practice, X-rays may be recommended during your child’s first dental visit to get a comprehensive view of their teeth and jaw development. However, not every child requires X-rays at this stage. Dr. Chaves, a skilled pediatric dentist in Woodland Hills, assesses each child’s unique needs and uses advanced, low-radiation digital X-rays only when necessary to ensure safe and accurate diagnoses. Schedule your child’s first appointment today to experience personalized care tailored to their oral health.
If your child has a cavity, Dr. John Chaves in Woodland Hills, CA, will treat it with a gentle, effective filling to prevent further decay and protect the tooth. Our team selects the best filling material based on the cavity’s size, location, and your child’s specific needs, ensuring a comfortable experience. As a trusted Woodland Hills pediatric dentist, Dr. Chaves also provides preventive guidance, like sealants and oral hygiene tips, to keep your child’s smile healthy. Contact our office to address cavities with expert care today.
A child’s first dental visit is an important milestone in their oral health journey. It’s never too early to start establishing good habits and a positive attitude toward dental care. If you haven’t already, schedule your child’s first dental appointment with our pediatric dentist.
Call our Woodland Hills dentist at 818-491-7294 today to schedule your consultation with Dr. John Chaves in Woodland Hills. We look forward to helping you achieve a healthier smile and a healthier life.
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