New Patients
The First Visit
Our office and the AAPD recommend that your child visit the dentist by the first birthday. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. Our entire staff is dedicated to providing thorough and gentle dental care. We strive to make each child’s visit as pleasant as possible.
During the first visit, you may expect your child to receive any of the following services:
- A comprehensive oral examination
- Instruction on proper oral hygiene
- Cleaning and polishing of the teeth
- Topical fluoride application
- Age appropriate diagnostic x-rays
You may play an important role in preparing your child for the first visit to the dentist. Here are a few ways you can help to make this visit enjoyable and positive:
- Present this as an exciting experience for your child. You may want to read books about going to the dentist. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Your child may sense any anxiety on your part.
- Refrain from using words around your child that may cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, shot, pull, drill, or hurt. This initial visit involves nothing uncomfortable. Our staff makes a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are much more pleasant and non-frightening to children.
- Explain to your child that we will count brush and take pictures of their teeth. By using these terms, your child will better understand the situation.
