Age 1 First Visit

Your first visit to our office establishes a vital foundation for our relationship with you.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist at the age of 12 months, or when the first tooth appears. This will allow our pediatric dentists to evaluate your child and introduce you to proper oral hygiene habits.

Please discuss the positive aspects of dentistry with your child. Try to act relaxed and at ease. You can explain that the pediatric dentist will count and take “pictures” of your child’s teeth.

Please do not tell your child that the dentist will not hurt because this may have never entered his or her mind. Instead, reassure your child that the pediatric dentist will be friendly, gentle and fun. Also, avoid using words such as the needle, shot, pull, or other words that could create anxiety. We will explain our procedures in ways that your child can understand and will work to decrease any fear or anxiety they may have. For example, we call the suction device “Mr. Thirsty” and local anesthesia “sleepy juice.”

A common problem that children face is being fearful about coming to the dentist because they are unsure about what will happen. It is normal to be scared of the unknown, and we work with kids every day to help them feel more comfortable so that they can establish a positive relationship with a dentist. This will lead to better oral hygiene as they get older.

There are several things we do to help kids feel more comfortable. When patients arrive in the office, there are plenty of games and toys for them to play with. We also don’t rush the patients into treatment. Some kids take a while to warm up to our staff and the idea of having someone work in their mouth. We talk with the kids and get to know them. When they are in the treatment areas, we show them what we will be doing and use wording that they will understand.

Our pediatric dentist will review your child’s health history form with you at the first visit. Your child will be introduced to our dental team and will be invited to tour the office. You are always welcome to accompany your child to the treatment area. This will allow the pediatric dentist the opportunity to discuss any dental findings and treatment options directly with you. The pediatric dentist will perform a head and neck examination and then evaluate the health of your child’s teeth and gums. Your child will also receive a dental cleaning and fluoride. Dental radiographs (x-rays) are taken only as the pediatric dentist feels they are necessary. If your child needs additional services, they will be scheduled for a later visit.

During the first visit, we will spend time educating you and your child on proper brushing techniques. It is critical to oral health that you, as the parent, follow up on these techniques at home.

Although your child may cry, this is normal behavior when children are put into unknown situations. Please do not be alarmed. We are all trained to help fearful or anxious children through their dental experience. As your child matures, we hope to encourage his or her independence and promote self-esteem.

We will treat your child as our own and perform the dental treatment in the easiest and safest way possible.

We look forward to your first visit.