Starting dental visits early helps kids build healthy habits that last a lifetime. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends children have their first dental appointment by age 1, or within 6 months of their first tooth erupting.
We make those first visits fun, positive, and full of encouragement! We offer routine pediatric care, dental cleanings, and parent support to help prevent cavities and create confident little brushers. If you’re looking for a kids’ dentist in the Lewiston-Auburn area, you’re in the right place!
Your Child’s First Dental Visit
That first visit is all about introducing your child to the dental office in a way that’s relaxed and easy. We’ll take a gentle peek at your child’s teeth, go over brushing tips, answer any questions, and make sure everything is on track.
Parents are welcome in the room during the appointment, and we’ll always go at your child’s pace. Our goal is to make it a smooth and positive experience for both you and your little one. We’re here to make this a low-stress, high-five kind of experience for everyone.
To be honest, a child’s dental appointment is often more nerve-wracking for the parent than for the child. One of the most helpful things you can do for your child is to try to be as natural and easy-going as possible when talking to your child about coming to the dentist. We realize that’s no easy feat for many adults, but kids are super sensitive to your feelings and they can easily pick up on your anxiety.
We get that you might be more nervous than your child, and that’s totally normal. Kids are great at picking up on our energy, so we keep things calm, light, and fun. You’re always welcome in the room, and we follow your child’s lead every step of the way.
“Most kids think the suction straw is the best part, and honestly, we kind of agree.” — Dr. Drews
Read: What to Expect at Your Child’s First Visit
Healthy Habits at Home
The role of a parent is obviously key in achieving good oral health!
By starting dental visits early, we can work together to navigate things like teething, thumb sucking, and infant oral health care before they turn into bigger issues down the road. We’re also here to offer support and suggestions for you, the brave caregiver, facing nightly toothbrushing negotiations with a toddler who thinks the toothbrush is a chew toy. We’re happy to help you build good oral health habits that stick (without the tears).
“We strive to make all dental appointments comfortable for our patients, especially when it’s a very first appointment ever.” — Dr. Drews
Read: Tips for Getting Your Child to Brush
Preventing Cavities Early
Baby teeth matter. They help with speech, chewing, and saving space for adult teeth. Early dental visits help catch small issues before they turn into big ones.
Dental school involves extensive training in pediatric dentistry, and therefore we can usually handle routine check-ups and many common behavioral problems that can arise. We strive to work with you and your child to provide the best possible dental care and while we happily handle routine dental care and treatment to our pediatric patients, we will also happily provide a referral to a pediatric office if that is what is in your child’s best interest.
We have excellent relationships with a number of pediatric dental offices in the area, such as Dr. Emily Scholl, and have no reservations that they will provide anything less than superior care to our young patients who may not be quite ready to succeed in our dental home.
Final Note
With specialty training and a fun, relaxed, family-friendly environment, we strive to give your child a good dental experience each and every time you visit. From the very first visit, starting at a very young age, through each and every subsequent dental cleaning or treatment visit throughout their adolescence, their awkward teenage years, and into adulthood.
Together we can help your child by providing the highest quality of oral health care and inspiring them to have confidence in themselves, and in their team of dental care providers, during every dental visit.
If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment with us for your child, just give us a call at (207) 782-5308 or contact us online.
Make an Appointment for Your Child’s Smile!