Infant & Toddler First Visits
Tampa, Florida
Nothing compares to the joy of seeing your child hitting new milestones, like seeing the first tooth emerge and scheduling the first visit to the dentist. Our Reef Kids Dental team is excited to meet your little one and provide the highest quality dental care in a fun and comfortable environment. We look forward to helping you set the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles.
When Should You Schedule Your Baby or Toddler’s First Dental Visit?
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), you should schedule the first dentist appointment after your child’s first tooth appears and no later than the first birthday. From that point on, most children need twice-yearly preventive dental exams and cleanings. However, kids prone to developing tooth decay or other dental problems may need more frequent dental visits.
Establishing a Dental Home
Establishing a dental home right from the start will ensure your little one receives regular dental care from a trusted provider in a familiar and comfortable environment. That helps make future dental visits less stressful and helps our team at Reef Kids Dental keep track of your child's dental development. Our goal is to help your child develop good oral hygiene habits and prevent oral health problems right from the start. We are all about laying the foundation for ongoing healthy smiles.
How Can You Prepare for the First Dental Visit?
Visiting the dentist can be intimidating to young children. You can help by preparing your child for the first dental appointment. Use a positive, upbeat tone to build up excitement when talking about the big day. Read a book or two about the dentist, role play, and bring along a favorite stuffed animal or a lovey. Make sure to schedule the appointment when your child is most rested and likely to cooperate. Keep in mind that it’s normal for some of our younger patients to be briefly upset during their exam.
What to Expect at Your Child’s First Dental Visit
Our kid-friendly team will greet you and your little one and make sure you are both comfortable. Next, we’ll discuss your child’s health and dental history and ask you if you have any oral health concerns. The first dental exam is a perfect time to review diet, hygiene, your child’s dental needs, and future expectations. We will evaluate your baby’s teeth, gums, and jaws to rule out tooth decay and any other problems. We’ll also ensure your little one’s oral development is on track.
After the exam, we will discuss our observations and may recommend preventive or restorative care to keep your child’s smile healthy and bright. We may also make oral hygiene recommendations and discuss nutrition, teething, pacifier use, and thumb sucking to promote long-term oral health. We are always happy to answer your questions and address any concerns.
Compassionate Pediatric Dental Care Near Me in Tampa, FL
If you're looking for a pediatric dental practice with a compassionate team, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to providing world-class dental care, visit Reef Kids Dental today! Our experienced pediatric dentist and kid-friendly staff look forward to working alongside you to get your child on track to a lifetime of healthy, sparkly smiles.
Are you ready to get started? Call our office at (813) 845-8722 to schedule your appointment or request one online today. We look forward to caring for your child's smile!