First Visit
When & What Is My Child’s First “Regular” Visit?
The secret to a bright, healthy smile is actually no secret at all: brush, floss and get a professional dental exam at least once every six months.
Professional dental exams are all about prevention — preventing existing problems from getting worse and preventing dental problems from developing in the future. Regular dental exams make it possible to identify and treat a problem in its earliest stage, which is a goal at Children’s Dentistry. Dr. Wilkerson, as well as the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends the first visit take place by the patient’s first birthday. This initial visit for young age groups is specifically designed to educate parents and identify concerns.
What To Expect
There’s nothing to fear with a dental exam. Your child’s teeth will be visually examined for signs of plaque, tartar, and tooth decay. Their gums will also be examined for puffiness or discoloration, which are signs of gum disease or dental infection.
Necessary dental X-rays will be taken during your dental exam, to enable Dr. Wilkerson to see below the surfaces of your teeth and areas not visible by the exam alone and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums.
We may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay.
Dental visits also include dental education to both the patient and the parent. Depending on the patient’s age we will help guide your child through the first experience at the dental office and then progressing with regular check ups. Our staff is well trained to work with the behaviors and levels of cooperation from all age groups. We look forward to meeting your family.
