First Visit
Your Child’s First Adventure in Dentistry
At Advanced Pediatric Dentistry, we ensure your child’s first visit is a positive experience! Our friendly team will guide you through what to expect, making the process fun and stress-free. From interactive activities to gentle care, we’re committed to helping your little one feel comfortable and excited about dental health!
We are here to guide you and answer any questions you may have about your child’s dental health. Give us a call during regular office hours at 717-697-KIDS (5437) or request an appointment online so we can talk.
Teeth Development
Baby teeth are very important for your child’s development. They help your child chew and speak. They also hold a space in your child’s jaw for permanent teeth growing under the gums.
A newborn usually has 20 baby teeth partially formed inside their gums at birth. The first teeth to emerge are the 2 upper and 2 lower front teeth. This usually occurs between 6-12 months of age. Usually, by age 3, children have all 20 of their baby teeth established in their mouth.
Here is a chart to help you monitor your child’s baby teeth development and the typical timeline for when they are shed to make way for permanent teeth. Please note that this is a general guide; not all children will develop their teeth at the same time. If you have any concerns, please contact us to schedule an exam and ensure there are no issues with your child’s dental development.
Making First Visits Specials
Expert Team
Connect with our caring professionals dedicated to ensuring your child feels safe and supported.
Comprehensive Care
Build healthy habits early with our tailored education and treatment plans for lifelong dental health.
Advanced Technology
Discover the latest advancements in pediatric dentistry, ensuring efficient, comfortable, and effective treatments for your child.
Positive Dental Associations
Create lasting memories by making dental visits fun, helping your child develop a positive attitude toward oral health.
Customized Care Plans
Benefit from personalized treatment plans tailored to your child’s unique needs and dental history, ensuring optimal care.
Parental Involvement
Engage in your child’s dental journey with our open communication and educational resources designed for parents and caregivers.
First Visit Questions?
When should a child’s first dental visit be scheduled?
The American Dental Association and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry say that the first dental visit should occur within six months after the baby’s first tooth appears, but no later than the child’s first birthday. It’s best to meet the dentist when your child is having no dental problems—don’t wait until an emergency comes up.
At Advanced Pediatric Dentistry, we understand the more knowledge you have, the better equipped you’ll be when it comes to establishing and maintaining good dental habits for your little one.
What to expect at your child’s dental visit?
The APD team will examine your child’s teeth and gums. We will answer any questions you have about your baby’s teeth. We will show you how to clean your child’s teeth, and discuss the benefits of a good diet and fluoride treatments. Preventative care is very important, it will save time, money, and teeth. We will schedule regular dental visits to help maintain a beautiful smile and good dental health.
For a detailed look at your child’s first visit at APD, download the social storybook for the office you plan to visit—Mechanicsburg or Harrisburg. It is a great way for everyone to see what to expect!
Tips for a positive dental visit?
- Schedule your child’s appointment at a time of day when they are more rested and cooperative, mornings are usually better for most children.
- Leave your anxiety at home. Stay positive before and during the visit. Focus on Calibur and all the other fun things that Advanced Pediatric Dentistry has to offer. Your child will follow your lead and be more positive as well.
- Don’t bribe your child to go to the dentist
- Don’t use going to the dentist as a punishment or threat. They will associate it with a negative emotion.
- Teach your child good habits at a young age. This will positively impact the amount of dental work they will have over their lifetime.
When does tooth decay start?
Tooth decay can start as soon as your child has their first tooth emerge.
Why is it important to have a dentist check a child’s baby teeth when they are going to be replaced with permanent teeth?
What causes tooth decay?
How can I help protect my child’s baby teeth?
Do not put your baby to bed with a bottle. Liquid pools around the teeth when a child falls asleep with a bottle in their mouth.
Minimize the amount of sugar your child eats and drinks. Liquids like fruit juice and soda contain sugar. Do not allow your child to constantly sip on sugary drinks or snack on sugary foods.