TIPS FOR PARENTS

How to make their first visit to the dentist a success

If you noticed your children have teeth that are starting to show you might have questions about the best course forward. Here are some great tips to help you take care of their new teeth and have an enriching experience during their first dental visit.

When should your child's first dental visit be?

The best time to start bringing your children to the dentist is about six months after their first tooth is out or just before their first birthday. Although most paediatricians perform a basic check of your children's mouth, our team, on the other hand, is specialized in identifying problems related to the growth and development of the teeth, gums and jaw. Since milk teeth are more porous and sensitive to decay than adult teeth, early diagnosis of potential problems and intervention is always essential to ensure their future health.

It is never too early to introduce children to tooth brushing and oral health

The best time to start teaching oral hygiene habits is before your child's first dental visit. Since they love getting to know their bodies and like to smile, touch and explore new things, why not add "teeth" and "tongue" to this list of discoveries? There are also many books, songs and even applications that can help teach children about healthy teeth, brushing, dentists and smiles. The earlier you can help demystify their teeth, the easier your child's first dental visit will be.

We recommend that parents start brushing their children’s teeth when they first appear, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and pure water for babies. The easiest way to create healthy and lasting brushing habits in your child is to start early and be consistent. Feel free to contact Dr. Al Eid's team to learn more about brushing teeth and benefit from a wealth of information to prepare your first visit.

Tooth brushing is an important part of our daily personal care habits

A great way to introduce children to tooth brushing is to make it a family activity where parents and siblings brush their teeth together. However, it is important to note that toothbrushes are tools, not toys, and that babies and toddlers should be closely supervised. The little ones can practice brushing their teeth, but inevitably you will have to help your child brush his teeth properly.

Children and toddlers are very sensitive to the energy of the people around them.

Children often reflect our behaviour and when we are relaxed and happy, they are more likely to imitate us or adapt our body language and state of mind. Children are also more relaxed when they know what's coming so take the time to talk to them about their visit to the dentist. In anticipation of this event, you can read about dentists and discuss what he will do, for example: "the dentist will count your teeth" or "we will show the dentist the good work we have done". We also encourage older siblings to serve as role models during the first two visits.

Choose a dental clinic you trust.

The best way to ensure a positive experience for your children is to have one as a parent. That's why it's important to choose a dental clinic that you can trust and feel comfortable with. Here are some things to consider when choosing your child's dental clinic:

Children are at their best when they are well rested. It is best to find a dental clinic near you to get to and from the visit in a short time.

We know you're busy. It is therefore important that you have access to a flexible online schedule to help you find convenient appointment times in the morning, around lunch time and in the evening.

The dentist, hygienists and clinic you choose must not only have extensive technical experience in dental and pediatric care, but above all, they must be passionate about what they do.

Dental examinations should be enjoyable and can even become fun outings for children. Examination rooms that are adapted to their needs, a relaxed atmosphere, positive reinforcement around the pleasant elements of the visit and congratulations once it's done are all effective ways to ensure that each visit to the Bellerive clinic is a success.

Want to know more about our pediatric dentistry services? Visit the contact us section or call us directly at the following number 514-355-7635 to speak to a member of our team.