You're definitely doing the right thing by starting early. I've seen plenty of parents bring their kids in around their first birthday, and honestly, it's more about getting them comfortable than anything else. The first visit usually isn't even about teeth cleaning—it's more of a "meet and greet" with the dentist, checking gums, and answering parent questions.
Funny enough, I've had toddlers who cried through their first appointment come back a few months later and act like they're regulars, climbing into the chair on their own and everything. Kids adapt quicker than you'd think. Plus, catching any potential issues early makes a huge difference down the line. I get why some parents might feel it's too soon—after all, there's barely anything to look at—but it's really about setting good habits and making dental visits feel normal rather than scary.
You're doing great getting ahead of things now...trust me, it'll save you (and your kiddo) a lot of stress later on.
"Funny enough, I've had toddlers who cried through their first appointment come back a few months later and act like they're regulars, climbing into the chair on their own and everything."
Haha, this reminded me of my niece. Her first dentist visit was around 13 months, and she screamed like the dentist was some kind of monster. Honestly, I wondered if it was too early myself. But fast forward to her next appointment—she strutted in there like she owned the place, hopped right up into the chair, and even opened wide without being asked. Kids really do surprise you with how quickly they adjust.
I think you're spot-on about making dental visits feel normal early on. Even though it seems like there's not much to check yet, it's more about building comfort and trust. Plus, dentists can spot things we wouldn't even think to look for at home. Starting early definitely pays off down the road...sounds like you're already ahead of the game.
My son was exactly the same—first appointment was meltdown central, but by the second visit he was chatting away with the dentist like old pals. Kids adapt quicker than we think...you're definitely doing the right thing starting early.
Haha, meltdown central sounds about right. Did your dentist have any tricks up their sleeve to calm him down? I remember my first orthodontics appointment—I was older, but still nervous as heck. Took me a few visits before I stopped gripping the chair like it was a rollercoaster ride... Kids really do bounce back fast though, don't they? Starting early seems smart—wish my parents had done that!
"Kids really do bounce back fast though, don't they?"
They sure do... it's amazing how quickly they forget the drama once they're out of the chair. I didn't start seeing a dentist regularly until I was well into my teens, and boy, did that make for some anxious visits later on. Starting early is definitely a good move—helps build trust and comfort. Sounds like you're doing great, even with the meltdowns. Hang in there, it'll get easier each time!
