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Your child’s first visit to the dentist explained!

Here at Lister House Dental Centre in Essex, we are delighted to offer friendly family dentistry to our community of patients. If you have young children who have yet to experience their first visit to the dentist, keep reading to discover what your little one’s trip to our Harlow practice will look like.

Preparing your child to visit our Harlow dental practice

So, you’ve got the appointment booked, and you’re ready to bring your child in for their first dental visit. Here are some tips to help prepare your child for the big day:

  • Be positive! By simply talking to your child about how fun and exciting a day out to the dentists can be, they will pick up on your positive vibes and feel more relaxed.
  • Be informative. You may want to explain very simply to your child about what they can expect on their first visit. Educative tools such as dental-related children’s books, age-appropriate YouTube videos and cartoons may help your child’s understanding.
  • Bring your child with you to your appointment. Allowing your child to see you calm and comfortable during your own check-up can help them feel confident and relaxed when it is their turn in the dental chair.

Your child’s first appointment at Lister House Dental Centre

During your child’s first appointment, the dentist will make sure to build excitement and understanding whilst ensuring your child feels comfortable at all times. The appointment lasts typically 30-45 minutes and will include an examination of your child’s teeth, gum, bite, and jaws to assess any risks, growth and overall development. The dentist will also show you and your child the best way to properly clean their teeth at home and offer diet and nutritional counselling if needed.

After your child’s first dental appointment

Just like we recommend to our adult patients, your children should see the dentist every six months, unless advised otherwise, for a comprehensive and routine check-up. The more frequently your child visits our practice and meets with our friendly staff, the more comfortable and confident they will feel!

We recommend bringing your child in for their first dental visit by their first birthday or when their first tooth appears – whichever comes first! If you’d like to book your child in for a routine check-up, get in touch with Lister House Dental Centre by phoning our friendly Reception team on 01279 423521/430101.

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