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What to Expect At Your Child’s First Dental Visit

What to Expect

Per the American Academy of Pediatric Dentists, all children should see the dentist by the time they reach their first birthday, or soon after getting their first tooth (whichever comes first). However, if your child is older than that, and hasn't yet seen a dentist, there is no shame in scheduling it later. To schedule your child’s first dental visit at Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry in Ramsey, NJ, call  201-746-4626 or message us.

Benefits of the First Pediatric Dental Visit

The overarching benefit of your child’s first dental visit is to get them established in a dental “home.” Their lifelong dental and oral health history will begin at this important appointment. Moreover, they will begin the process of getting comfortable (desensitization) at the dental office.

Parents and guardians benefit from the peace of mind that their child is established with a dentist. At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, you will have a trusted partner and ally dedicated to helping your child develop healthy, strong teeth and beautiful smiles.

During the first pediatric dental visit, you can expect plenty of helpful education and information, ranging from home care for your child’s teeth and gums, to tricks and tips for encouraging and establishing great oral hygiene habits. 

Your child will also be gently examined and evaluated (caries risk assessment) as a preventative measure, and to rule out any signs of redness, infection, or inflammation.

At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, all of our experienced, gentle, and friendly pediatric dentists have been Board-Certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. We aim to provide premium pediatric dental care, from your child’s very first appointment at our Ramsey, NJ practice.

Although children should ideally see a dentist by their first birthday, we understand that this doesn’t always happen. As a parent or guardian, you should never feel ashamed to take your child to the dentist, at any age. Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is a judgment-free practice, with our sole aim being to provide your child with exceptional oral healthcare.

At Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry, we are an inclusive pediatric dental practice. Our pediatric dentists have completed extensive training and regularly pursue continuing education to best serve patients of all abilities. We welcome pediatric patients with special needs in our practice.

First Dental Visit: Services Provided in Ramsey, NJ

During your child’s first dental visit at our state-of-the-art pediatric dental practice in Bergen County, you can expect our experienced pediatric dentists to provide the following services.

Child & Parent Education (Desensitization Visit)

During your first dental visit with your child, our team will focus on getting you and your child comfortable in our practice. We will provide education, and helpful tips, and answer any questions you have about your child’s oral health and upcoming dental milestones.

Tongue & Lip Tie Assessment

Tongue tie and lip tie assessments are oral examinations to ensure that the membrane connecting the tongue to the bottom of the mouth is not too thick, short, or otherwise abnormal (tongue tie). Likewise, the dentist will provide a lip tie assessment, confirming that the upper lip is attached to the upper gum properly.

Caries Risk Assessment (Cavity Risk Assessment)

During your initial pediatric dental visit, your dentist will conduct a caries risk assessment of your child. This is an evaluation of your child’s risk factors for developing cavities, based on parental history, signs of plaque on the teeth, the way the saliva flows in the mouth, any deep grooves present in teeth, or signs of bacteria. This is a painless examination that helps educate parents and determine appropriate preventive treatments.

Frequently Asked Questions About Your Child’s First Visit

What do I need to bring to my child’s first dental appointment?
You should bring your insurance card, and payment if you have a copay. Before your appointment, you may fill out new patient forms online or print them and fill them out and bring them with you. If your child is on any medication, bring a list of all medications they take.
How long will my child’s first dental visit take?
The appointment typically takes less than one hour.
Do you offer child-friendly entertainment?
Absolutely. Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is designed to welcome and engage young patients. We have a variety of age-appropriate entertainment and comfort items such as pillow pets and blankets.
Can I stay with my child during their first dental visit?
Yes. Parents and guardians are always welcome to stay with their children during their dental treatments.
Is the first dental visit covered by insurance?
Most of the time, yes. However, all policies vary a bit in allowances and exclusions, so check with your carrier for specific coverage. If you do not have dental insurance, ask about discounts for uninsured patients.
Do I need to do anything to prepare for my baby’s first dental visit?
No. If you want to fill out forms ahead of time, you are welcome to, but it is not required. If your child has special needs or requires accommodations please notify our team before your appointment.
Will my child get a cleaning at their first dental visit?
It depends. The first dental visit is largely focused on establishing a dental home for your child. Depending on their age at the appointment, they may have an exam or a cleaning, but it is most important to get children comfortable and used to going to the dentist.
When should I bring my child for their first dental visit?
When your child gets their first tooth, or when they reach their first birthday is the recommended age for the first dental visit. However, if they didn’t start dental care that early, there is no shame in bringing them in at a later age.

Book Your Child’s First Dental Visit in Bergen County

If it’s time for your child to see the dentist, Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry is eager to meet you. As a comprehensive pediatric dental practice, we welcome children and their families to our kid-friendly dental practice in Ramsey, NJ. To schedule your appointment call201-746-4626 or message us.

Contact our office today to schedule your appointment!

Valley Smiles Pediatric Dentistry
470 North Franklin Turnpike Suite 106
Ramsey, NJ 07446
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