REQUEST AN 
Going to the dentist for the first time can be a new and strange experience for children and parents alike. While many parents are anxious about their child’s first visit, don’t forget that a positive first experience can help establish healthy lifelong habits in terms of dental health. This is why you should consider a clinic that understands children’s dentistry in Strathcona and is a child-friendly clinic.
This appointment will likely be short and gentle for your child. We try to spend our time just helping children feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable in their environment. With a little preparation, it can also be fun! Let us explain what typically goes on during your child’s appointment and how to prepare your child for the visit.
What Happens at a Child’s First Appointment?
Your child’s first dental visit most often happens at their first birthday or within six months of the day they have their first tooth erupt. The dentist in Strathcona will do a gentle exam to assess early decay, how the baby teeth are coming in, and how your child is transitioning into having their teeth brushed.
You can expect:
- A warm welcome and a fun environment
- A quick, gentle check of teeth, gums, and bite
- Some instructions on brushing teeth and using a soft toothbrush
- Some tips on teething and thumb sucking
- Some time for moms and dads to answer any questions they might have
This appointment, while for your child, also gives us a chance to meet, observe your child, observe their habits, and consider any special care they may need in the future.
How to Prepare Your Child for the Dentist
Preparing your child for the dentist makes a big difference in how the appointment goes. Kids feel more secure when they know what to expect, and small steps can help them feel excited instead of nervous.
Tips to prepare:
- Talk positively about the dentist using simple, friendly language
- Play pretend dentist at home with a toy toothbrush and mirror
- Read picture books about visiting the dentist
- Avoid scary words like “needle” or “drill”
- Bring their favourite toy for comfort during the visit
Keep the focus on how the dentist helps keep their smile happy and strong.
How Is Children’s Dentistry Different?
Dentists who specialize in children’s dentistry in Strathcona use special tools, language, and techniques to treat young patients with extra care. They’re trained to work with small, growing mouths and understand the emotional needs of children.
What makes it different:
- Child-sized equipment
- A calm and friendly tone
- Gentle, age-appropriate treatment
- Fun distractions like cartoons or toys
- Preventive guidance for parents
The goal is to make the experience feel less like a medical visit and more like a friendly routine.
When Should You Schedule the First Visit?
The first dental visit for children should take place by age one, or within six months of the first tooth coming in. Even if your child doesn’t have many teeth yet, early dental care can help spot potential issues and start healthy habits early.
Regular dental check-ups from a young age:
- Prevent cavities
- Build trust with the dentist
- Monitor healthy jaw and teeth development
- Support positive behaviour at future visits
It’s better to start early than to wait for a problem to arise.
Make Your Child’s First Dental Visit a Positive One – Book Today!
Help your child build confidence in dental care by choosing a team that truly understands young patients. Strathcona Dental Choice offers gentle, friendly first visits designed to make every child feel at home in the dental chair. Book your child’s first appointment today and give them a great start to lifelong oral health!
FAQs
Can I stay with my child during the visit?
Yes! Parents are generally welcome to stay with their child during the exam to provide comfort or help the child feel secure.
What happens if my child cries or gets scared?
That is perfectly normal! The dental teams trained in pediatric care are accustomed to this and will gently lead the child through the process.
Do I need to brush before the first visit?
A light cleaning with a soft toothbrush or cloth is beneficial; however, you are encouraged to not worry about brushing too much. The purpose of the visit is to introduce familiarity with the dental setting.
Will they take X-rays at the first visit?
If there is no concern, your child will usually not receive X-rays. X-rays are more common with older children or when the dentist is more closely monitoring dental development.
