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As a parent, you want the best for your child—and that includes a healthy, confident smile. At Brookdale Dental Clinic, we've been helping Peterborough families establish excellent oral health habits since 1971. One of the most common questions we hear from parents is: "When should I bring my child in for their first dental appointment?" This guide covers everything you need to know about your child's first dental visit, from the ideal timing to practical tips for making the experience positive and stress-free. When Should Your Child Have Their First Dental Appointment? The Canadian Dental Association recommends that children visit the dentist within six months of their first tooth appearing, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first. This might seem early, but there are important reasons for scheduling that first appointment sooner rather than later. Why So Early?  Establish a dental home: Building a relationship with a family dentist early means your child has a trusted place for all their dental needs as they grow. Catch problems early: Baby teeth are susceptible to decay, and early detection means simpler, less invasive treatment. Parent education: The first visit is as much about guiding parents as it is about examining your child. You'll learn proper brushing techniques, dietary recommendations, and what to expect as more teeth come in. Prevent dental anxiety: Children who visit the dentist regularly from a young age are far less likely to develop fear or anxiety about dental care. What Happens During a Pediatric Dental Exam? At Brookdale Dental Clinic, we understand that every child is unique. That's why we take a gentle, personalized approach to pediatric dental care. Here's what you can expect during your child's first visit: Meet and Greet Before we examine a single tooth, we take time to make your child feel comfortable. Our friendly team will introduce themselves, show your child around the office, and let them explore the dental chair. For very young children, you may hold them in your lap during the exam. The Examination The dentist will perform a thorough but gentle examination, which typically includes: Checking existing teeth for decay, damage, or developmental concerns Examining the gums, jaw, and bite to ensure proper development Assessing oral tissues including the tongue, cheeks, and palate Evaluating fluoride needs based on your child's risk factors and local water supply Gentle Cleaning (If Appropriate) Depending on your child's age and comfort level, the hygienist may perform a gentle cleaning to remove any plaque buildup. This is also an opportunity to demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques for you to continue at home. Discussion with Parents We'll discuss our findings with you, answer any questions, and provide guidance on topics such as teething, thumb-sucking, pacifier use, and nutrition. We believe an open, honest dialogue helps parents feel confident about their child's oral health. Tips for Preparing Anxious Children It's completely normal for children to feel nervous about visiting the dentist—especially if it's their first time. Here are some practical strategies to help your child feel more at ease: Before the Appointment Keep it positive. Avoid using words like "hurt," "needle," or "drill." Instead, talk about the dentist as a friendly helper who keeps teeth healthy and strong. Read books together. There are many children's books about visiting the dentist that can help normalize the experience. Titles like "The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist" or "Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip" are great options. Play pretend. Role-play a dental visit at home. Let your child be the dentist and examine a stuffed animal's teeth, then switch roles so they know what to expect. Schedule wisely. Choose a time when your child is typically well-rested and fed. Avoid scheduling during nap time or when they're likely to be cranky. Be honest but brief. Answer questions simply without over-explaining. Too much detail can create unnecessary worry. During the Appointment Stay calm. Children pick up on parental anxiety. If you're relaxed and confident, your child is more likely to feel the same way. Bring a comfort item. A favourite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal can provide reassurance in an unfamiliar setting. Let the dental team lead. Our staff are trained to communicate with children in age-appropriate ways. Sometimes it helps for parents to step back and let us build rapport directly with your child. Celebrate afterward. Plan a small reward or fun activity after the appointment, not as a bribe, but as a positive association with dental visits. Building Positive Dental Habits Early The habits your child develops in their early years can set the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here's how to establish good oral hygiene routines from the start: Start Before Teeth Appear Even before your baby's first tooth emerges, you can begin oral care by gently wiping their gums with a soft, damp cloth after feedings. This removes bacteria and gets your child accustomed to having their mouth cleaned. Brush Twice Daily Once teeth appear, brush them twice a day using a soft-bristled, age-appropriate toothbrush. For children under three, use a rice-grain-sized smear of fluoride toothpaste. For ages three to six, use a pea-sized amount. Supervise brushing until your child is around seven or eight years old to ensure they're doing a thorough job. Make It Fun Brushing doesn't have to be a chore. Try these ideas to make oral hygiene enjoyable: Let your child choose their own toothbrush (featuring their favourite character) Play a two-minute song while they brush Use a brushing app with games and timers Brush together as a family to model good habits Create a reward chart for consistent brushing Watch the Sugar Diet plays a significant role in dental health. Limit sugary snacks and drinks, especially between meals. Encourage water as the primary beverage and offer teeth-friendly snacks like cheese, vegetables, and nuts. Avoid putting your child to bed with a bottle of milk or juice, as this can lead to "baby bottle tooth decay." Introduce Flossing Once your child has two teeth that touch, it's time to start flossing. Floss picks designed for children can make this easier. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between teeth where a toothbrush can't reach. Keep Regular Appointments Schedule dental checkups every six months. Regular visits allow us to monitor your child's development, catch any issues early, and reinforce positive dental habits. Consistency also helps your child become familiar and comfortable with the dental office environment. Your Partners in Your Child's Oral Health At Brookdale Dental Clinic, we believe every child deserves a healthy smile and a positive relationship with dental care. Our experienced team provides gentle, personalized attention in a warm and welcoming environment. We're not just treating teeth, we're building lifelong habits and confidence. If you're ready to schedule your child's first dental appointment, or if you have questions about your little one's oral health, we're here to help. Contact Brookdale Dental Clinic today. New patients are always welcome, and we look forward to becoming your family's trusted dental home in Peterborough.