How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Visit
Turning the Dentist into a Friend, Not a Fear
A child’s first dental visit is a major milestone — one that sets the tone for lifelong oral health. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we understand that parents want this first experience to be calm, informative, and fun. With the right preparation, your child can begin their dental journey with confidence and a smile.
When and Why to Schedule That First Visit
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, children should see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting — whichever comes first. These early visits help establish healthy habits, detect potential issues early, and get your child used to the dental office environment.
Preparing at Home: The Parent’s Role is Key
Parents can set the tone well before stepping foot into the dental office. Here's how:
- Talk Positively: Use encouraging words and avoid phrases like "It won’t hurt."
- Read Books or Watch Videos: There are excellent kid-friendly resources about going to the dentist.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Let your child pretend to be the dentist with a toy or stuffed animal.
- Model Good Behavior: Let them see you brushing, flossing, and even attending your own dental appointments.
The goal is to make the dentist seem friendly and familiar — not scary or unknown.
What to Bring and Expect on the Day of the Visit
On appointment day, keep things calm and relaxed. Bring:
- A favorite toy or blanket for comfort
- Any necessary health records
- A list of questions or concerns you may have
The visit typically includes a gentle examination of the mouth, a demonstration of brushing techniques, and tips on caring for baby teeth. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we take a “tell-show-do” approach to guide children through each step with care and patience.
Creating a Dental Routine from Day One
After the first visit, continue to nurture your child’s dental health by:
- Brushing their teeth twice a day with a small amount of fluoride toothpaste
- Flossing once their teeth touch
- Limiting sugary snacks and drinks
- Scheduling regular visits every 6 months
These habits, reinforced early, will build a strong foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
Keep It Positive, and Keep It Consistent
The best preparation for your child’s first dental visit is a calm, proactive approach that normalizes the experience. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we’re here to partner with parents every step of the way — from baby teeth to braces and beyond. Let’s make that first visit something to smile about!
Book your child’s first appointment today — and give them the gift of stress-free dental care for life.
Dr. Sherif Gabr, DDS
Hello there! I am Sherif Gabr, and I will be your dentist at Modern Dentistry of New England. At Modern Dentistry of New England, we take pride in making everyone in our practice feel welcomed, valued and respected. When you become a patient at Modern Dentistry of New England, you are not joining a dental practice but also becoming part of our extended family.
