At Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH, we welcome children with patience, kindness, and plain language that makes sense to young patients and to parents. We focus on prevention and positive experiences, so small concerns are caught early and dental visits feel like a normal, comfortable part of growing up. Whether it is your child’s first appointment or one of many, our goal is for every child to leave smiling.
Schedule Your Child’s VisitWhy Early Dental Visits Matter
Many parents wonder whether a visit is necessary before a child has a full set of teeth. Starting early gives children and families a real advantage. Regular visits from a young age bring several important benefits.
- Cavity prevention. Tooth decay is one of the most common childhood health concerns, and early care helps stop it before it starts.
- Healthy habits. Children learn how to brush, floss, and eat in ways that protect their teeth.
- Comfort and trust. Short, gentle visits help children feel safe in the dental chair, which can reduce anxiety later in life.
- Monitoring growth. We can watch how the teeth, jaws, and bite are developing and spot concerns while they are easy to address.
- Early detection. Small problems are simpler, faster, and more comfortable to treat when they are found early.
- Healthy baby teeth. Baby teeth guide permanent teeth into place, so keeping them healthy supports a healthy adult smile.
Common Childhood Dental Concerns We Help With
Kids face a range of dental challenges as their mouths grow and change. Many of these are completely normal, and others benefit from a closer look. Here are some of the concerns parents ask about most.
- Cavities and early signs of tooth decay
- Teething discomfort and the timing of new teeth
- Thumb sucking and pacifier habits that can affect the bite
- Teeth grinding during sleep
- Crowding, gaps, or teeth that come in out of place
- Sensitive teeth or gums
- Bad breath
- Chipped teeth or injuries from play and sports
If your child grinds their teeth at night or plays sports, we can talk about protection options such as a custom night guard or a sports mouth guard. If an accident happens, our emergency dentistry page explains what to do.
What Happens at a Child’s First Dental Visit
A first visit is usually short, relaxed, and focused on getting comfortable. We want children to leave feeling proud and eager to come back. Every child is different, so we move at a pace that suits them. Here is what you can generally expect.
01
A Warm Welcome
We greet your child, show them around, and help them get comfortable in the chair. Parents are welcome to stay close by.
02
Talking and Getting Acquainted
We ask about your child’s habits, health, and any concerns, and we explain what we are doing in simple, friendly language.
03
A Gentle Exam
We count and check the teeth, look at the gums and bite, and watch for signs of decay or other concerns.
04
A Cleaning
We gently clean the teeth to remove plaque and polish away stains, showing your child what each tool does so nothing feels surprising.
05
Images When Needed
We take digital images only when they are helpful for a child’s age and risk level.
06
Tips for Home
We show your child how to brush and clean between their teeth, and we give parents simple guidance on diet, habits, and what to expect next.
How to Help Your Child Feel Ready
A little preparation can go a long way toward a smooth visit. Children pick up on the feelings of the adults around them, so a calm and positive attitude helps. These simple ideas work well for many families.
- Talk about the visit in a happy, matter of fact way, and avoid words like hurt, pain, or shot
- Read a picture book about going to the dentist together
- Practice opening wide and counting teeth at home
- Schedule the appointment for a time of day when your child is usually rested and cheerful
- Let our team know about any worries or special needs so we can plan ahead
- Praise your child afterward, no matter how the visit went
Care for Every Stage of Childhood
Children’s dental needs change as they grow, and our care changes with them. Here is a general look at what families can expect at different stages.
- Babies and toddlers. First visits, teething guidance, and early habits such as pacifier and bottle use
- Preschoolers. Cavity prevention, brushing skills, and getting comfortable with regular checkups
- School age children. Monitoring as baby teeth are lost and permanent teeth arrive, plus guidance on diet and home care
- Teens. Support through changing habits, sports involvement, wisdom tooth development, and a growing sense of independence
Because we care for patients of all ages, parents can often schedule the whole household together. Learn more about our family dentistry services, and about routine cleanings and exams that keep every smile on track.
Planning for Your Child’s Dental Care Costs
Parents often want to understand costs before a visit, and we are happy to help. Many dental plans cover preventive care for children at a high level, which makes regular checkups one of the best ways to use your benefits. We accept all dental insurance plans except Medicaid, we are in network with Delta Dental Premier, and we offer financing through Sunbit for care that insurance does not fully cover. Our team will review your coverage and explain your estimated costs before treatment begins.
Give Your Child a Smile to Be Proud Of
The best time to start caring for your child’s teeth is now. A positive, gentle dental experience helps your child build confidence, healthy habits, and a smile they love to share. Our team at Godfrey Dentistry in Somersworth, NH is ready to welcome your family. Schedule your child’s visit today.
Book Your Child’s AppointmentFrequently Asked Questions About Kid-Friendly Dentistry
The American Dental Association recommends a first dental visit by your child’s first birthday or within six months after the first tooth comes in. Early visits help us check how the teeth and gums are developing and give parents guidance on cleaning, feeding, and preventing cavities.
A first visit is typically short and gentle. We say hello, explain things in simple language, count and check the teeth, look at the gums and bite, and clean the teeth if appropriate. We also give parents tips on brushing, diet, and habits such as thumb sucking.
Most children should have a checkup and cleaning about every six months. Some children, such as those who get cavities more often, may benefit from more frequent visits. We will recommend a schedule that fits your child’s needs.
Baby teeth help children chew, speak clearly, and hold space for permanent teeth. Cavities in baby teeth can cause pain, infection, and problems for the permanent teeth coming in behind them. Keeping baby teeth healthy supports a healthy adult smile.
Keep the conversation positive and simple, read a children’s book about dental visits, and avoid scary words. Let our team know about any fears so we can take extra time and go at a comfortable pace. Praise your child afterward for being brave.
Begin cleaning your baby’s gums with a soft cloth before teeth appear, and start brushing as soon as the first tooth comes in. Parents should help with brushing until a child can do it well alone. Flossing can begin when two teeth touch each other.
Thumb sucking and pacifier use are normal for young children, and most children stop on their own. If the habit continues after permanent teeth begin to come in, it can affect the bite and the shape of the mouth. We can offer gentle guidance if you are concerned.
Yes. Parents are welcome and encouraged to stay with their children. Patients under 18 should be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at their appointment.
