Young child smiling in dental chair holding bib at Montclair pediatric dentistry office.

Getting Off to a Good Start at the Dentist

A child’s first dental visit, usually by his or her third birthday, should establish the groundwork for a lifetime of proper dental care. You can encourage a positive attitude toward that visit by following these tips:

Take your child when you visit your dentist so he or she can get used to the office and staff.
Play dentist to familiarize your child with what will happen. Count your teeth is another game you can play.
Read you child stories about dental visits.
Answer questions honestly, but not too specifically. Avoid negative words like hurt.
When your two to five year old child visits us for the first time we will:
Check for early signs of decay or developmental problems.
Answer your questions and explain exactly how to care for your child’s teeth.
Explain to your child what cavities are, how they are caused, and how to achieve good dental health through regular check ups, tooth brushing, and a good diet.
Present a certificate to you and your child.
Most children should visit a dentist every six months.

As your child grows older, we will encourage her or him to take responsibility for their own dental health and about the importance of good nutrition. During regular checkups we will:

Perform a thorough examination and assess the need for an orthodontic consultation.
Take any necessary radiographs at about age seven.
Protect Pre-molars, first molars, and second molars, which come in between ages 6 and 13, against decay with sealants.
Teach your child about plaque, how to brush and floss properly, and about the importance of good nutrition. We suggest the use of electric toothbrushes and flossers and other easy ways to make brushing fun. Using a timer will help your child know how long to brush.