Your child's first dental visit: what to expect
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A first dental visit should feel easy — for your child and for you. Here is how a first visit works at Novo Family Dental, and how to prepare.
When to come in
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth. If your child is older and has never seen a dentist, that’s fine too. The best time to start is now.
What happens at the visit
- We say hello first. Your child meets Dr. Arora and the team before anyone looks at teeth.
- A gentle look. For toddlers, this is often a short “lap exam” while your child sits with you.
- A soft cleaning, if your child is comfortable.
- Your questions. Teething, thumb habits, brushing — ask anything.
How to prepare
- Talk about the visit in a positive, simple way: “The dentist counts your teeth.”
- Avoid words like “hurt,” “shot” or “drill” — even in reassurance.
- Book a morning time, when children are rested.
- Bring a comfort item if it helps.
If your child speaks another language at home
Dr. Arora speaks English, Hindi and Punjabi, and our team speaks Spanish. Your child can be spoken to in the language they know best.
Ready for a first visit? Request a time or call us at (925) 897-0070.