Child Dentistry Puyallup

Your child’s first visit

When should my child visit the dentist?
The first “regular” dental visit should occur shortly after your child’s third birthday. This visit is typically brief and requires minimal treatment. During the exam, you may be invited to sit in the dental chair and hold your child, or you might be asked to wait in the reception area for part of the visit to allow your child to begin building a relationship with the dentist.

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums, and may take X-rays to check for decay or to assess the development of permanent teeth beneath the gums. We may clean your child’s teeth and apply a topical fluoride treatment to help protect their teeth from decay. We’ll also make sure your child is getting the right amount of fluoride at home and provide guidance on how to care for their teeth effectively.

How do I prepare my child for their first dental visit?
Many parents ask this question, and we recommend preparing your child in a way similar to how you would for a first haircut or trip to the store. Your child’s response to the first visit may surprise you, but a positive and calm approach often helps ease any anxiety.

For more information about Johns Family Dentistry or to schedule a consult with Dr. Johns, please visit our scheduling page or call our office in Puyallup, WA at Johns Family and Implant Dentistry Phone Number 253-848-3723.

Tips to Prepare Your Child for the First Visit:

  • Take your child for a “preview” tour of the office.
  • Read books with them about visiting the dentist.
  • Explain what the dentist will do during the first visit.
  • Share positive stories about your own dental experiences.

What to Expect During the First Visit:

  • The dentist will examine your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth.
  • We’ll check for habits like thumb sucking.
  • We’ll assess your child’s need for fluoride.
  • The dentist will teach you how to care for your child’s teeth and gums.
  • We’ll recommend a schedule for regular dental checkups.

Preventive Care: Protecting Your Child’s Smile
Tooth decay no longer has to be a given in children. At our practice, we prioritize preventive care and use the latest technology, such as dental sealants, to safeguard your child’s teeth. Sealants are advanced plastics applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth, where cavities are most likely to form, providing an extra layer of protection.

Cavity Prevention Tips:
Cavities in children are often caused by a diet high in sugary foods and inadequate brushing. By limiting sugar intake and encouraging regular brushing, you can help reduce the risk. The longer food residue stays on your child’s teeth, the greater the chances of developing cavities.

Every time your child eats, an acid reaction occurs in their mouth as bacteria break down sugars. This acidic environment can last for about 20 minutes, weakening tooth structure and leading to cavities. Thicker saliva, which tends to occur when a child consumes lots of sugars and carbohydrates, doesn’t wash away food as quickly, increasing cavity risk.

Helpful Tips for Preventing Cavities:

  • Limit the frequency of meals and snacks.
  • Encourage regular brushing, flossing, and rinsing.
  • Be mindful of what your child drinks.
  • Avoid sticky or sugary foods.
  • Make treats part of meals rather than snacks.
  • Offer healthy, nutritious snacks.

Teething Timeline
The first baby teeth to emerge are typically the two bottom front teeth, which appear around 6-8 months. Next come the four upper front teeth, followed by the remaining teeth, which usually appear in pairs along the sides of the jaw until your child is about 2½ years old.

By age 2½, most children have all 20 baby teeth. Between ages 5 and 6, the first permanent teeth begin to emerge. Some permanent teeth replace baby teeth, while others come in without replacing anything. Don’t worry if your child’s teeth come in a little early or late; every child is unique.

Why Baby Teeth Matter
Although they are eventually replaced by permanent teeth, baby teeth play a crucial role in your child’s development. They hold space for adult teeth, assist in chewing and speaking, and contribute to your child’s overall appearance. Maintaining a healthy diet and good dental hygiene is essential for ensuring your child’s baby teeth are healthy and functional.

For more information about Johns Family Dentistry or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Johns, please visit our scheduling page or call us at 253-848-3723.