(218) 454-0523

Most kids don’t light up at the idea of going to the dentist (and that goes for many adults, too).

Dr. Roberts and his staff at Greenhaven Family Dental know that and understand that not everyone likes coming to the dentist.  

However, regular dental care is important for all children, and it is never too early to begin training in good habits!  As a parent, you can help calm your child's nerves and make each dentist appointment go more smoothly. Try these steps to help your child feel at ease about going to the dentist.

• Talk about the visit in advance. 

• In a relaxed setting, calmly discuss the upcoming dentist visit with your child.

• Explain what might happen at the appointment and that the dentist can help keep your child's teeth bright and healthy.

The American Dental Association recommendation is that children should visit the dentist within six months after their first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday.  By the age of three or four years, most children do well at their dental appointments.

What can you expect to happen at your child's first dentist appointment?

The dentist will examine your child's baby teeth to look for tooth decay or other dental health issues.

•     He will assess your child's risk for tooth decay.

•      He should teach you how to properly clean your child's teeth.

•     You and your child’s dentist can talk about any concerns, such as thumb sucking, how often should teeth be brushed, and proper use of sippy cups to prevent harm to your child's teeth. 

•     If the child is old enough to be cooperative, they may have their teeth cleaned to remove plaque build-up and a fluoride treatment will be applied to strengthen the enamel  of the teeth.

How often should my child visit the Dentist or have their teeth cleaned?

After your child's first dentist appointment, he or she should continue to have regular check-ups at least every six months. In some cases, such as with children who are at increased risk of tooth decay, your child's dentist may recommend more frequent visits.

Why should my child visit the dentist so often?

Regular dentist appointments can help reduce your child's chances of having cavities since his teeth will be cleaned to remove plaque build-up and a fluoride treatment will be applied to strengthen the enamel of the teeth. The dentist will also examine your child's teeth, jawbones, and oral tissues to check for any potential problems.

What if my child has a cavity or needs dental work on baby teeth that will fall out anyway?

Sometimes, children will need to have a cavity filled or other dental work done — but should you go through with it if your child still has their baby teeth? Dental work is necessary even for children who still have their primary or baby teeth. Cavities can be very painful, and healthy baby teeth are important to help your child chew food, speak properly, and guide permanent teeth into their proper position.

Making Children's Dental Appointments More Pleasant

It is important to Dr. Roberts and his staff that your child have as pleasant of a dental visit as possible.  As you prepare your child for an upcoming dental appointment, remember that your attitude has a significant influence on your child's perception of the dentist. If the thought of dental work on yourself or your child makes you anxious, do your best to remain relaxed and calm when you talk about the dentist with your child. The better experience children have, the more trust and security they will feel when visiting the dentist, which can promote a lifetime of good dental health.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child, please call our office located in Baxter, MN at:

P.218.454-0523

F.218.454.0524