The first dental visit is critical for the child. Appropriate timing, positive language, and preparation are key factors.
First Examination Preparation
Healthcare facilities are a completely unfamiliar area for children. Therefore, it is important for them to get familiar with the environment. In modern dentistry, it is recommended to visit a dentist within 1 year following the first tooth eruption. Even if there is no problem with the first visit, meeting the doctor and becoming familiar with the environment is very important for the child. In later periods, there are points to pay attention to when taking children to the dentist:
o Choosing appointment times when the child is more cheerful and cooperative facilitates coordination with the doctor.
o Parents should not use threats such as 'taking them to get an injection' or 'taking them to the dentist' to scare the child. Such sentences create prejudice against the dentist and increase fear.
o Parents should speak and behave in a motivating way. They should avoid telling children about negative experiences. They should not reflect their own concerns to children.
o The child's preparation can be facilitated with animations, visuals, and toys related to dental examinations and treatments.
When is the First Dental Examination Performed in Babies?
The World Health Organization (WHO/World Health Organisation) recommends that the first dental examination in babies be performed immediately after the first tooth emerges. In babies, the first tooth emerges between 6-12 months.
Why is Dental Examination Necessary in Babies?
The primary goal of the pedodontist is to protect your child from cavities. Therefore, at the first examination, information is given about what you need to do to prevent your baby's teeth from decaying. Dental health is monitored by calling at regular intervals.
What Should Be Done When Taking Children to Dental Treatment?
- Unless otherwise stated, children should be taken to the dentist on a full stomach.
- Do not ask children demotivating questions such as 'are you tired?', 'did it hurt?', 'are you scared?' during treatment.
- It is preferred that parents bring children to treatments.
- A child who gets tired or bored during treatment may not want to continue treatment. Do not insist on more procedures for your children and your doctor in order not to make the child more uncomfortable and not to affect your child's condition in other appointments.
What is Done at the First Children's Dentist Visit?
The most important purpose of the first pedodontic examination is to examine all of the child's teeth with the help of a light and mirror, detect existing problems, and share treatment options with the family. In addition, information is provided about preventive applications and nutrition. During the child's first examination, hand instruments are explained, what procedure is being performed is explained, and the child is allowed to recognize some instruments by touching them. In this way, interaction is established between the child and the pedodontist, and efforts are made to break the dental phobia.