Lap Exam age 1 - 2 At Aurora Children’s Dentistry, we want to make your child's first pediatric dentistry visit in Anchorage AK as stress-free and positive as possible. That's why we offer lap visits for toddlers. These are short, gentle appointments where your child sits in your lap while we perform a simple cleaning or exam. These visits are ideal for toddlers under age three who may feel nervous in a new environment.Lap visits help children feel safe and comforted during their early dental experiences. However, they are not suitable for longer or more complex procedures, which require your child to remain still and safely positioned in the dental chair. What Is a Lap Visit?A lap visit involves your toddler sitting on your lap while facing you, then leaning back into the dentist's lap for a quick exam or cleaning. This position allows your child to stay physically close to you, which reduces anxiety and helps them ease into dental care at a young age. Studies show that lap visits can reduce fear and improve cooperation in toddlers. By creating a calm and supportive atmosphere early on, we can help set the stage for positive dental habits in the future. These dental visits are short and focused on establishing trust, monitoring early development, and educating parents on infant oral hygiene and nutrition. What Ages Need Lap Visits?Lap visits are typically used for children under the age of three. At this stage, most toddlers are too young to sit through a dental visit on their own. By age two or three, many kids begin to outgrow lap visits and are ready to sit independently in the dental chair. However, every child is unique. Some toddlers may not need a lap visit at all, while others, such as children with special needs, may benefit from lap visits a bit longer. We'll work with you to determine the best approach for your child. How Long Are Lap Visits Used?As stated, most lap visits are phased out by age 3, as older toddlers are more physically active and harder to hold safely during an exam. Continuing lap visits beyond this age may also make it harder for your child to feel comfortable attending future appointments without you. As your child grows, it's important for your child to develop trust with our dental team. This helps encourage independence and builds their confidence in receiving care without always needing a parent's physical presence. For children with developmental delays or sensory sensitivities, we may continue lap visits a bit longer to help accommodate their needs. What Procedures Can Be Performed During a Lap Visit?Lap visits are designed for quick, preventive services like visual exams, brushing instructions, fluoride application, and sometimes gentle cleanings. They are not appropriate for longer procedures, such as fillings, sealants, or extractions, which require your child to remain still and securely positioned in the dental chair. If your child needs further treatment, we will explain the next steps and help prepare them for sitting in the dental chair comfortably in future visits. Importance of Seeing a Pediatric DentistA pediatric dentist specializes in caring for infants, toddlers, children, and teens. These specialists are trained to handle the unique dental and emotional needs of younger patients. Our team knows how to communicate in a child-friendly way, recognize early signs of developmental issues, and make every visit as comfortable as possible. Seeing a pediatric dentist ensures your child receives age-appropriate care in a welcoming, family-focused environment. We also help guide you on essential topics like thumb-sucking, bottle feeding, pacifier use, and teething, all of which affect your child's oral health. When Should I Schedule My Child's First Appointment?According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should see the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early visits allow us to monitor tooth development, offer guidance on oral hygiene, and help prevent dental issues before they start. Establishing care early also makes it easier for your child to feel comfortable with dental visits. The earlier they start, the more natural and routine it becomes, reducing the likelihood of dental fear later in life. Tips for Preparing Your Toddler for a Lap VisitParents play a key role in making a child's first dental appointment a positive experience. Here are a few tips to help you prepare: Talk positively about the dentist beforehandUse simple, reassuring words like "The dentist is going to count your teeth and help keep them clean!" Practice at homeUse a toothbrush to "count" your child's teeth and let them practice opening their mouth. Bring comfort itemsA favorite toy or blanket can help your child feel more secure during their dental visit. Choose a good time of dayAvoid scheduling appointments during nap times or when your child is hungry or tired. Stay calm and encouragingChildren can sense your emotions, so maintaining a relaxed and confident attitude goes a long way. What to Expect During the First VisitDuring your child's first lap visit, we'll start by greeting you both and helping your little one feel at ease. We may talk about your child's medical history, feeding habits, and oral hygiene routine. Then, your toddler will sit on your lap while we perform a gentle exam to check for early signs of decay, developmental issues, or oral habits like thumb sucking. If appropriate, we may clean your child's teeth and apply fluoride. Finally, we'll provide tips on brushing, diet, and how to care for your child's teeth at home. You'll also have a chance to ask any questions. Has Your Toddler Seen the Dentist Yet?If your toddler hasn't had their first dental visit, don't worry, it's not too late! A lap visit is a gentle and effective way to introduce them to dental care. Whether you're a new parent or just looking for a pediatric dental home, our Aurora Children’s Dentistry team is here to support you every step of the way. Schedule Your Child's Lap Visit TodayLet us help your child build a healthy foundation for lifelong oral health. To schedule a lap visit or learn more about our pediatric dentistry services in Anchorage AK, call (907) 621-4521 or stop by Aurora Children’s Dentistry. We look forward to welcoming you and your little one into our dental family! |
