Pediatric Dentistry

What Happens During My Child's First Dental Appointment?

We strive to make your child's first dental visit enjoyable at Valley View Dental. Our friendly team will welcome your child, showing them around the office to help them feel at ease. Our dentist will examine your child's teeth and gums closely to make sure they are in good health. We might clean and strengthen their teeth with fluoride. We'll also advise you on how to brush and floss your child's teeth at home.

Baby teeth first start appearing when a child is six months old, and your child should have all of their teeth by the time they turn three years old. Before your child is able to care for their own teeth, it is important you help them and set them up for healthy success.

For babies, wiping off their developing teeth with a moist washcloth is appropriate care until your child is old enough for a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-fluoride toothpaste. 

While fluoride is a helpful and essential mineral for protecting teeth, it shouldn’t be swallowed. As such, don’t start using fluoride toothpaste for your child until they understand how to spit.

Finally, a good diet is also important for oral health. Teach your child to take care of their mouth after eating sweets, and limit the amount of sugar, food colorings and sticky foods and drinks they consume.