Your child’s first dental visit is an exciting milestone! As a parent, you may have questions about what to expect and how to prepare. At Montgomery, Prattville & Pike Road Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we specialize in making dental visits fun, stress-free, and educational for kids of all ages.

If your child has their first visit coming up, here’s what you can expect when you walk through our doors!

When Should My Child Have Their First Dental Visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing—whichever comes first. Early visits help prevent cavities, establish good oral hygiene habits, and ensure your child feels comfortable at the dentist.

A Warm Welcome to Our Office

At our Montgomery, Prattville & Pike Road offices, we’ve designed our space to be warm, friendly, and inviting for kids. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice a kid-friendly atmosphere with bright colors, engaging toys, and a welcoming team that loves working with children.

Upon arrival, our front desk staff will help you check in and answer any questions you may have. If you haven’t already filled out new patient forms, you can complete them in the office or online before your visit for added convenience.

What Happens During the First Visit?

Your child’s first dental visit is all about comfort, education, and prevention. Here’s what typically happens:

1. Gentle Exam & Check-Up

One of our skilled pediatric dentists will:

• Check your child’s teeth, gums, and jaw development.
• Look for signs of early cavities or other concerns.
• Ensure proper spacing and alignment of baby teeth.

For younger children, we use a “knee-to-knee” technique, where your child sits in your lap while we perform the exam—helping them feel safe and secure.

2. Teeth Cleaning (If Needed)

If your child is comfortable, we’ll do a gentle cleaning to remove plaque, apply fluoride for added protection, and give you tips on brushing at home.

3. Parent Education & Oral Care Tips

We believe that parent education is just as important as the check-up! Our team will provide:

• Brushing and flossing tips for your child’s age.
• Guidance on teething, pacifier use, and thumb-sucking.
• Diet recommendations to promote strong, cavity-free teeth.

4. A Special Prize for Your Child!

At the end of the visit, your child will get to pick out a fun prize as a reward for their bravery! We want every child to leave with a smile and a positive experience, making future visits something they look forward to.

How to Prepare for Your Child’s First Visit

To make the experience smooth and stress-free, here are a few tips for parents:

• Talk Positively About the Dentist – Use happy, reassuring language and avoid scary words like “pain” or “shot.”
• Read Books or Watch Videos About Dental Visits – Fun stories or cartoons about the dentist can help ease nerves.
• Schedule Wisely – Pick a time when your child is well-rested and not hungry for the best experience.
• Bring Comfort Items – A favorite stuffed animal or blanket can help your child feel at ease.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my child is nervous?

It’s completely normal for children to feel a little anxious! Our team specializes in gentle, kid-friendly care and will go at your child’s pace to make them feel comfortable.

Will my child get X-rays?

For very young children, X-rays are usually not necessary unless there is a specific concern. As your child grows, we will take X-rays as needed to monitor their development.

How often should my child see the dentist?

Just like adults, kids should visit the dentist every six months for check-ups and cleanings to maintain a healthy smile.

A great first dental visit sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles. At Montgomery, Prattville & Pike Road Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team is dedicated to making your child’s experience fun, educational, and stress-free.