Your child’s first dental visit sets the tone for a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you are wondering when to book that first appointment, what will happen once you arrive, or how to prepare a nervous toddler, you are in the right place. At Ivy Lane Dentistry in Terrell Hills, our team welcomes families with a gentle, step by step approach that helps kids feel safe, seen, and successful.
When to schedule the first visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit by a child’s first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth coming in. In practical terms, that means you should schedule an appointment as soon as you notice a tooth, and no later than age one.
Why so early? Baby teeth hold space for adult teeth, guide jaw development, and affect speech and nutrition. Early visits let us catch small issues before they become cavities, coach you on home care, and help your child build positive memories around the dentist. If your child is already older than one, do not worry. The best time is now.
What to expect at Ivy Lane Dentistry
Our goal is a calm, family friendly experience from the moment you check in. Your child will meet the team, explore the environment, and move at a comfortable pace.
Here is how a typical first visit unfolds:
- Warm hello and brief tour, with time for your child to get used to the chair and lights.
- Gentle “counting” of teeth and a look at the gums, cheeks, and tongue.
- Toothbrushing guidance tailored to your child’s age, plus fluoride varnish if appropriate.
- Discussion of diet, pacifiers or thumb sucking, and injury prevention.
- iTero imaging or digital x-rays used only if clinically helpful for diagnosis at this age. If we do not need them, we will not take them.
We keep explanations simple and positive. If your child prefers to sit on your lap for the exam, that is welcome. If they want to hold a favorite toy, even better.
How early visits help prevent cavities and anxiety
Bringing your child in early has three big benefits:
- Prevention: We identify weak spots in enamel, discuss fluoride and sealant timing, and coach brushing and flossing techniques that match your child’s stage.
- Confidence: Short, easy visits teach your child that the dentist is a safe place. Familiar faces, predictable steps, and praise reduce fear.
- Habits: Kids who start young tend to keep up with regular checkups, and that supports better oral health through the teen years and beyond.
Parent prep tips that make a difference
You can set the tone at home. Try these preparation steps:
- Use simple, reassuring language. “The dentist will count your teeth and make them shiny.”
- Read a short book about the dentist and practice opening wide with a mirror.
- Bring a comfort item, like a stuffed animal or small blanket.
- Schedule at a time when your child is well rested, usually morning.
- Avoid “It will not hurt.” Instead, say “We will be gentle and quick.”
If your child has special sensory preferences, let us know when you book. We will adjust lighting, sounds, and pacing.
Digital x-rays, iTero imaging, and safety
Parents often ask about imaging. At Ivy Lane Dentistry, we use digital x-rays and iTero imaging to improve accuracy and reduce radiation exposure. For very young children, imaging is often not necessary, and we only recommend it when the diagnostic benefit is clear. When needed, we use the smallest possible settings and protective measures to keep your child safe.
Mild sedation for very anxious children
Most kids do well with our gentle approach, short visits, and tell, show, do communication. For a child with significant anxiety or special circumstances, we can discuss mild sedation. Sedation is carefully dosed, monitored, and chosen based on age, health history, and the planned procedure. The goal is simple, a calm, cooperative visit that protects your child’s comfort and confidence. To learn more, ask our team about our sedation dental services during your consultation.
Answers to common questions from parents
- When should kids see a pediatric dentist, and what age should you bring a child to the dentist? Book the first visit by age one, or within six months after the first tooth appears, then continue with checkups every six months unless your dentist recommends a different interval.
- Why are pediatric dentists so expensive? Pediatric care can seem higher in cost because it includes age specific training, child sized equipment, longer appointment times to go at a child’s pace, and enhanced safety measures like specialized monitoring and imaging protocols. At Ivy Lane Dentistry, we discuss coverage and potential copays in advance, accept many insurance plans including Tricare, and focus on prevention to keep future costs down.
- What is the rule of 7 in pediatric dentistry? A helpful guideline is that permanent first molars and incisors are often in place by around age 7, which is why an orthodontic evaluation around that age is recommended. The “age 7” check helps us assess jaw growth, spacing, and bite so that any needed guidance can be timed well.
How Ivy Lane Dentistry makes first visits feel easy
Families choose Ivy Lane Dentistry for our calm, respectful care. Dr. Matthew Westerberg and our team combine a family legacy in dentistry with modern technology. We focus on clear explanations, gentle techniques, and low stress appointments right here in Terrell Hills near Fort Sam Houston. Many local parents tell us their children leave smiling and proud after their first cleaning.
If you are new to the area and searching for a welcoming dentist office in San Antonio, we would be honored to meet your family and show you around.
Simple steps you can take today
- Check your calendar and pick a morning that works well for naps and meals.
- Gather your child’s comfort item and any questions you want to ask.
- Call us at (210) 824-9566 or email info@ivylanedentistry.com to schedule.
- If your child is due for a school form, let us know so we can complete it.
Booking before the holidays or the back to school rush helps you secure your preferred time and keeps your child on track.
A quick word on ongoing care
After the first visit, most children benefit from cleanings and exams every six months. We will share toothbrush techniques, flossing games, and diet tips that fit your child’s age. As your child grows, we can discuss orthodontic timing, sports mouthguards, and cavity prevention strategies for snack heavy seasons like Halloween.
If you have teens or other family members who need a checkup as well, we provide comprehensive dentistry in San Antonio for all ages. You can coordinate appointments to make family visits simple.
The takeaway
Schedule your child’s first dental visit by age one or within six months of the first tooth. Expect a warm welcome, a gentle exam, and clear guidance on brushing, diet, and growth. Imaging is used only when appropriate, and mild sedation is available for particularly anxious children. Early, positive experiences prevent cavities, reduce fear, and build lifelong habits. We would love to help your child start strong. Call Ivy Lane Dentistry at (210) 824-9566 or email info@ivylanedentistry.com to book your visit, and consider reserving a spot before the holiday and back to school seasons fill up.
