If your child’s first dental visit is coming up, you might feel more nervous than they do. That’s completely normal. You want it to go well. You don’t want them to be scared. And honestly, you’re not even sure what happens at that first appointment. Let us put your mind at ease.
At Gwaltney Dental, we’ve been welcoming young patients to our Suffolk office for decades. Dr. Steve started back in 1983. Now Dr. Ryland and Dr. Whitney help carry on that family tradition. We know exactly how to make a first visit feel fun, not frightening.
When to Schedule That First Appointment
The American Dental Association recommends bringing your child in by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth popping through. That might seem early. After all, they only have a few teeth at that point. But those baby teeth are placeholders for adult teeth. They also affect how your child learns to chew and talk. A quick visit when they’re little helps us catch any early issues and gives you a chance to ask questions.
Plus, starting early means your child grows up thinking the dentist is just a normal part of life. No fear to unlearn later.
What Actually Happens During the Visit
That first appointment is mostly about making friends. When you arrive at our office on Pruden Boulevard, our front desk staff will greet you with a warm smile. No pressure. No rush. One of our dental hygienists will invite you and your child back to an exam room. For a toddler or young child, we usually have them sit in your lap facing you. Then they lean back into the hygienist’s lap. It’s cozy and secure.
Dr. Ryland or Dr. Whitney will come in and do what we call a “lap exam.” They’ll count your child’s teeth. They’ll check for any signs of decay or developmental concerns. They might do a gentle cleaning if your child is comfortable with it. The whole thing takes about 15 to 20 minutes. No drills. No needles. And no scary tools.
For older children coming for their first visit, we’ll do a more complete exam. We might take X-rays to see what’s happening below the gum line. But we always explain everything before we do it. No surprises.
How You Can Help Prepare Your Child
You play a huge role in how your child feels about the dentist. Here are a few simple tips:
- Watch your words: Avoid saying things like “don’t be scared” or “it won’t hurt.” Those words introduce ideas your child might not have had yet. Instead, say “the dentist is going to count your teeth” or “we get to ride in a special chair.”
- Read a book about it: There are lots of children’s books about visiting the dentist. Reading one together a few days before can help your child know what to expect.
- Bring them along to your appointment: If you’re due for a checkup, ask about bringing your child to watch. They’ll see you being calm and comfortable, which teaches them there’s nothing to fear.
- Stay positive: Your child will pick up on your energy. If you seem relaxed, they’ll feel safe.
We Make First Visits Fun
Our team loves kids. We keep prizes on hand. We use silly voices. And we go at your child’s pace. If they need a break, we take a break. If they want to just watch the first time, that’s fine too.
Ready to Get Started?
If your child is due for their first visit, or overdue, give us a call at 757-982-8467. We’re accepting new patients from Suffolk and the surrounding areas. Let us show you and your little one why families trust Gwaltney Dental.