Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist

Our team works hard to help your child's first visit to the dentist be a positive one - paving the way for a lifetime of healthy smiles!

Here are a few tips to prepare your child for his/her first dental visit and help their first experience go smoothly:

Make an appointment for a time of day that works best for your child. Try to avoid their nap time.

Try not to convey anxiety to your child. Remain calm and relaxed. Tell your child about the visit, but don't go into detail. Over preparing, or making the visit seem like a “special event" can create anxiety. Let the dentist and hygienist explain and answer your child's questions.

Be careful what you say around your child. Never let your child hear of any past bad dental visits-either experienced by yourself, siblings or their peers. Be aware not to use words like “needle", “drill", “shot", “pinch", “yank", “pull". Never tell your child that something may or may not “hurt". Keep it simple!

Do not be alarmed if your child cries during the first visit. Crying is perfectly normal during your child's first visit. Remain positive and supportive, and work with the hygienist during this time.

Allow some alone time for your child and hygienist. When possible, leave your child alone with the dentist and staff. If your child is mature (usually 3 years old and older) it is not uncommon for the dental staff to ask the parent to wait in the reception area. Our Ottawa West Dental team will create a comfortable environment for your child. Each of our professionals will talk to your child in terms that your child can relate to, as well as help create a positive experience for your child.

Each time your child visits the dentist, the easier it will be if they had a positive, enjoyable experience the first time.

Canada Dental Benefit for children under 12

Starting in December 2022, eligible families that do not have dental insurance can receive up to $650 per child to cover dental expenses, depending on household income. Eligible services include oral surgery and diagnostic, preventative, restorative, endodontic, periodontal, prosthodontic, and orthodontic services.^*

You can apply for the benefit through the CRA. To find out if you are eligible, visit the Government of Canada website.

^*Services are subject to change, as indicated by the government of Canada.
^**Benefit coverage amount is subject to adjustment, as indicated by the government of Canada.