At Carousel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we recommend that every child have their first dental visit by their first birthday. This may seem early, but establishing healthy habits and introducing children to the dental office at a young age can positively shape their oral health and attitude about dental care.
The first step is to call us at (952) 715-6177 to schedule an appointment. Our Apple Valley dental office is open Monday through Friday, from 8:00am to 4:00pm. When you call, a friendly member of our dental team will be happy to assist you and explain what we need from you, including our new patient form and your child's medical history.
Setting the Stage for a Successful Visit
Every child is unique, and when we communicate with them on their level, we help ease their apprehension about being in a new and unfamiliar situation. To ensure that the first visit goes smoothly and with minimal stress for your child, our dental team takes the time to explain how things work and what happens in a fun and engaging way.
Anything we can do to help our young patients relax benefits them now and for the long-term. We will help them get accustomed to the new surroundings at their pace by giving them a ride in the dental chair, letting them look in the mouth mirror, and counting their teeth.
The First Dental Exam and Cleaning in Apple Valley, MN
Most children will receive a gentle teeth cleaning during their first appointment unless they’ve had one in the last six months, or they’ve been referred for treatment only. The cleaning involves polishing their teeth and removing any plaque, tartar, and stains.
Since first dental visits are typically low-key and don’t usually involve any treatment, they are also the perfect opportunity for you to ask the friendly team at Carousel Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics about any concerns you have. During this appointment, we’ll also demonstrate proper oral hygiene techniques and provide nutritional guidance.