Updated October 2026
Children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday. Parents can help prepare their little ones for their first dental visit to keep the experience positive. Here are some helpful tips you can use at home to help your son or daughter feel comfortable, safe, and happy at their pediatric dental appointment.
#1 Prepare Them at Home
When baby teeth arrive, you can begin brushing them with a soft-bristled infant toothbrush. This helps them acclimate to brushing and having their teeth examined, which is what will happen at their first dental appointment. During first dental visits, our team spends a lot of time helping your little one get comfortable in the dental chair while counting and examining their teeth.
#2 Speak Positively About the Dentist
Even if visiting the dentist is not your favourite activity, talking positively about the dentist is essential. Your child will respond to your energy, so keep the conversation light and fun. For example, let your child know that they're about to meet some new friends (our dental team). Mention that they'll likely get an up-and-down ride in the dental chair. Tell them we are anxious to count their teeth and wonder if they, too, like to count.
#3 Play Games or Read Stories About Visiting the Dentist
Introduce your child to the dentist before their first visit with fun games, stories, or colouring pages that focus on positive dental visits. Watching upbeat shows or videos about visiting the dentist will also help your child know what to expect when it's their turn.
#4 Strategically Schedule Their First Appointments in Barrie
Pick a time to schedule your little one's first dental visit when they're not tired or hungry. Scheduling after a nap or after lunch may help them be in the right frame of mind for their first visit. A Saturday appointment may be best if you're a working parent or your child is already in school. You can also schedule several weeks out, giving you time to prepare them for the dental setting.
We are open six days a week and offer late evening hours Monday through Thursday. Consider arriving a little early so your child has time to feel at ease in our dental office and complete any paperwork. You can also complete the paperwork at home in advance.
#5 Bring a Friend to the Dental Visit
Does your child have a favourite blanket or stuffed animal that helps them feel comfortable and happy? Then, bring it along to their dental visit!
#6 Avoid Trigger Words
Some words can scare little ears. We recommend avoiding things like:
- Dental Drill
- Numbing Shot
- Tooth Decay
- Bleeding
Instead, take your child on a virtual tour of our dental office! Click here.
Contact Your Child's Dentist Today
If you're looking for excellent children's dentistry in Barrie, ON, and it's time for your little one's first visit, we invite you to contact Park Place Dental at (705) 728-9922. You can also book online!
