When it comes to visiting the general dentist, the first dental experience for a child is often scary, and this first impression can play a role in how they feel about dentists in the long term. Most general dentists treat patients of all ages, and they know how to create a relaxing environment where the child feels comfortable during the visit.
A common misconception is that parents must take their child to a dentist who specializes only in children for the first visit, but general dentists are experienced with handling kids and adults. The following is everything to know about visiting a general dentist for your child’s first dental experience.
A general dentist deals with all stages of the oral care process, including diagnosis of oral health concerns, treatment and long-term prevention. They also typically treat patients of all ages, ranging from children as young as 6 to elder adults. As it relates to treating children in particular, general dentists understand how to create a welcoming environment that helps the child form a positive mindset when it comes to dental visits.
A general dentist offers a unique perspective when it comes to pediatric care. They deal with patients of all ages and see a range of oral health concerns, including enamel erosion, periodontal disease and orthodontic concerns. A big part of their job is to identify issues in patients of all ages before they develop and help with prevention. Subsequently, they are good at determining issues the child may develop in the future and how to prevent complications. They can also detect any existing problems and properly treat them in the least invasive way possible.
It is also helpful to ensure your child knows what to expect during their first dental experience. Although each general dentist has a unique process, the first visit typically involves a discussion with the parent and their child to get to know one another and calm any anxieties that exist, a non-invasive oral examination and insights on how to ensure that the child keeps good oral health in the future. The dentist may also order non-invasive dental X-rays during the first visit.
If you are like most parents, then you want your child’s first experience to go well. The general dentist will do everything possible to make the visit pleasant, but there are also things parents can do as well, such as explaining the process to them and rewarding them afterward. It is also helpful to show up on time to avoid rushing and increasing the level of anxiety.
If it is time for your child’s first dental experience, then get in touch with us today to set up a convenient time for the first visit. We take pride in creating a kid-friendly environment at our office.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesbydesignhuntsville.com or call Smiles by Design, PC at (256) 660-3233 for an appointment in our Huntsville office.
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