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.
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
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.