Your child's first dental visit is an important milestone. It sets the foundation for a lifetime of good oral health—and hopefully, a positive relationship with dental care.
Your Carmel Mountain Dentist, Dr. Irene S. Olaes, DMD has been helping San Diego families raise cavity-free kids for over 25 years. Here's everything you need to know to make that first visit a success.
When Should My Child First See the Dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends:
- First visit: By age 1 or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing
- Follow-up visits: Every 6 months thereafter
Why so early? Early visits:
- Catch problems before they worsen
- Establish a "dental home" for your child
- Let kids get comfortable with the dental environment
- Give parents guidance on proper care
What Happens at the First Visit?
The first appointment is primarily about building comfort and trust. Expect:
For Infants and Toddlers (Under 3)
- Lap exam: Your child sits in your lap while Dr. Olaes gently examines their mouth
- Quick look at teeth and gums: Checking for early decay or developmental issues
- Discussion with parents: Proper brushing, diet, fluoride, pacifier/thumb sucking habits
- Duration: Usually 15-20 minutes
For Preschoolers (3-5 years)
- Tour of the office: Meet the friendly staff, see the equipment
- Ride in the "big kid" chair
- Teeth counting: Making it a fun game
- Gentle cleaning and polishing: If the child is comfortable
- Fluoride treatment: Strengthens developing teeth
- Discussion: Brushing technique, diet, any concerns
- Duration: Usually 30-45 minutes
How to Prepare Your Child
Before the Visit
Do:
- Read children's books about visiting the dentist
- Play "dentist" at home with a toothbrush
- Use positive, simple language ("The dentist will count your teeth!")
- Schedule the appointment when your child is well-rested
- Mention that you go to the dentist too
Don't:
- Use scary words like "shot," "drill," or "hurt"
- Bribe with treats (especially sugary ones!)
- Share your own dental anxieties
- Over-explain—too many details can create worry
- Schedule during nap time or when hungry
What to Bring
- Your child's comfort item (stuffed animal, blanket)
- Insurance card and forms (if any)
- List of questions for the dentist
- Your patience and positivity!
What If My Child Is Scared?
Some nervousness is completely normal. Dr. Olaes uses several techniques to help anxious children:
Tell-Show-Do
We explain what we're going to do in simple terms, show them the instruments, then gently proceed. No surprises.
Positive Reinforcement
Praise for good behavior, stickers, and small prizes help create positive associations.
Distraction
Counting, storytelling, or talking about their favorite things keeps little minds occupied.
Going at Their Pace
If a child isn't ready, we don't force it. Sometimes the first visit is just sitting in the chair and getting a new toothbrush—and that's perfectly okay.
Parent Presence
You're welcome to stay with your child throughout the appointment if it helps them feel secure.
Common Questions Parents Ask
"Are X-rays safe for children?"
Yes. We use digital X-rays, which emit up to 80% less radiation than traditional film. We only take X-rays when necessary—typically not at the first visit unless there's a specific concern.
"What if my child has a cavity?"
Baby teeth cavities should be treated. Untreated decay can:
- Cause pain and infection
- Damage developing permanent teeth
- Lead to early tooth loss and spacing issues
- Affect speech development
"When should my child start brushing on their own?"
Children don't have the dexterity for effective brushing until around age 7-8. Until then, parents should:
- Brush for toddlers
- Supervise and assist school-age children
- Do a final "check brush" each night
"Is fluoride safe?"
Yes, when used appropriately. Fluoride strengthens enamel and prevents cavities. We'll recommend the right amount based on your child's age and cavity risk.
"What about thumb sucking and pacifiers?"
These habits are normal in young children. Most kids stop on their own by age 3-4. If the habit continues past age 4, we can discuss strategies to prevent dental problems.
Building Lifelong Healthy Habits
The first dental visit is just the beginning. Here are tips for raising cavity-free kids:
At Home
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (pea-sized amount)
- Start flossing when teeth touch
- Limit sugary snacks and drinks
- No bottles in bed after teeth come in
- Drink water throughout the day
Regular Visits
- Schedule checkups every 6 months
- Don't skip appointments—consistency builds comfort
- Address problems early before they require extensive treatment
A Word About Dental Anxiety
Studies show that dental fear often begins in childhood—usually from a negative experience or from absorbing a parent's anxiety.
By starting dental visits early and keeping them positive, you're giving your child a gift: the ability to care for their teeth without fear for the rest of their life.
Schedule Your Child's First Visit
At Carmel Mountain Dentist, we love treating kids! Dr. Olaes creates a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe and even have fun.
Ready to schedule? Call us at (858) 487-4683. We're conveniently located in Carmel Mountain Ranch and serve families throughout Rancho Bernardo, 4S Ranch, Poway, Scripps Ranch, and the greater San Diego area.
Your child's healthy smile starts here!