Questions to Ask During Your Child's First Dentist Appointment

When you take your little one to the dentist for the first time, you’ll probably be asked some questions about your son or daughter. You might talk about topics like your child’s eating habits and pacifier use, as well as whether or not you’ve noticed any thumbsucking. And the dentist may also inquire about your family’s oral hygiene routine, if your child is exhibiting any teething symptoms, and more. But, in addition to answering questions, this is also your opportunity to ask any questions that you may have about oral care for kids. What are some of the questions that you should consider asking during your child’s first dental appointment? Well, the simple answer is: whatever you want! But if you’re stumped about where to begin, check out the info below to get started. 

Questions About How to Care for Your Child’s Teeth at Home

In between dental appointments, it will be up to you to help keep your kid’s chompers in tip-top shape. So, at this first dental appointment, you can ask questions that will guide you towards providing the best care possible. Questions might include:

• When should I start brushing my little one’s teeth, and how do I go about doing so correctly? 

• How often should I brush my child’s teeth?

• Should I floss my child’s teeth as well? If so, how do I do it correctly?

• What type of toothbrush is best for kids?

• What type of toothpaste is recommended for kids? Is fluoride toothpaste safe? And how much toothpaste should I use?

• Is it important to prevent cavities in baby teeth, since they’re going to be replaced anyway?

• How do I prevent cavities from developing in my child’s baby teeth?

• What is bottle rot, and should I be concerned?

• What are the best foods and drinks to help keep kids’ teeth healthy?

• What should I do if my child develops a toothache, bleeding gums, or other symptoms?

Questions About the Growth of Your Child’s Mouth

Being aware of what to expect when it comes to teething and the development of your child’s mouth is also important. So, you can ask questions like:

• What can I expect when my child is teething? Which teeth will come in first?

• What remedies do you recommend when teething symptoms arise?

• Will thumbsucking or the use of a pacifier affect the way my child’s mouth develops? 

• How can I stop my kid from sucking his or her thumb?

• Will there be enough space for all of the teeth to grow in properly?

• Is my child’s bite properly aligned?

• Do you think my kid will need orthodontics?
  
  

Questions About Professional Dental Care for Your Child

• Other great questions to ask include those that will help you become familiar with what to expect when you take your child to the dentist. Here are some examples:

• What will you do during check-ups?

• Are dental X-rays safe for children?

• What types of X-rays do you use?

• When will X-rays be taken, and how many will be taken?

• Do you recommend treatments, such as sealants, to help prevent cavities?

• What steps will you take to help keep my child calm? Do you offer sedation for kids when they need treatment?

• What should I do during a dental emergency, such as if a tooth is damaged or knocked out? 

Use Insurance to Make It Easier to Afford Your Child’s Dental Appointments

Like adults, it’s best for kids to see the dentist often. After the first visit, which can be around your little one’s first birthday or when the first tooth starts growing in, the dentist might recommend bringing your child in for a check-up on a regular basis, such as every six months. This can help you be sure that your child’s mouth is developing and growing in a healthy way. 

Worried about being able to afford all of those appointments? A smart strategy might be to buy dental insurance that will cover your entire family! At Spirit Dental, you can find family plans that are affordable and can help you save money, taking the pressure off your wallet when it’s time for your child’s appointments. 

Ask Questions, Learn, and Gain Confidence as a Parent!

Now that you have a better idea of some of the questions that you can ask during your child’s first dentist appointment, you can use the visit as an opportunity to learn more about what you can do to help keep your kid’s mouth as healthy as possible!