When your child has his or her first dental appointment, our caring dentists and team will do everything possible to maximize their comfort. Our office is designed to help children feel relaxed, and we work hard to maintain a positive atmosphere. The goal of the first visit is to help children develop positive associations with the dental office and begin developing a trusting relationship with our pediatric specialists and team.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit a pediatric dentist at about the time of their first birthday. During this initial checkup, our dental professionals discuss your child’s oral health with you and review the steps you need to take in order to ensure that he or she remains healthy. We will gently examine your child’s mouth and provide a cleaning to make sure that his or her mouth is clean and that all is well.

Some topics which we may cover during the first appointment include:

  • Your child’s fluoride levels, and the proper use of fluoride
  • Oral habits (such as thumb sucking)
  • Teething and other developmental milestones
  • Diet and nutrition, and how they connect to your child’s oral health
  • Your child’s risk of cavities
  • Soft tissues (such as cheeks and gums)
  • Ways to prevent accidents that damage the teeth and face

We will also review oral hygiene, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, and take X-rays as needed.

Our pediatric specialists will recommend a schedule of follow-up visits, usually once every 6 months, to continue monitoring your child’s oral growth and development and provide ongoing preventive care.

We invite you to call our practice today at 412-257-1150 to learn more about pediatric dentistry in Pittsburgh and McMurray, Pennsylvania, and schedule your child’s first appointment with Dr. Courtney Uselton and associates.