First Visit Expectations

We know that first visits to any doctor’s office can be intimidating. Not only is your child’s physical comfort important to us, but their emotional well-being is, too. 

Our office, as well as the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends establishing a “dental home” for your child by their first birthday. Children who have a dental home are more likely to receive appropriate preventive and routine oral health care.  

Before their first visit, please refrain from using words that might cause unnecessary fear, such as “needle,” “shot, “pull,” “drill” or “hurt.” Instead, use words that convey the same message but are pleasant and non-frightening to your child.

During their first visit, we will give you and your child a tour of our office and ask some questions about your child’s medical and oral health history. Please bring a list of any medications that your child may be taking and their dosages, including all vitamins and over-the-counter supplements.

We love to educate our patients and answer questions, so don’t be shy! We encourage you and your child to ask questions and express any concerns or desires. 

We invite you to stay with your child during the initial examination. However, during future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to go with our staff by themselves through the dental experience. 

We can usually develop a closer rapport with your child when you are not present. Our purpose is to gain your child’s confidence and overcome apprehension. If absolutely necessary, you may accompany your child to the treatment room. For the safety and privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult. 

A typical first visit includes a cleaning and an oral exam. We evaluate oral development, missing or extra teeth, gum disease, and signs of problems associated with prolonged thumb-sucking and teething.

We use this time to educate your child on proper brushing and flossing methods and allow them to be a part of the process so they can develop positive life-long habits.

Once your child’s cleaning and exam are complete, your child’s dentist will review their findings with you and create a treatment plan that reflects the wants and needs of you and your child while giving them a functional, healthy smile. 

We want your child’s visit with us to exceed every expectation, so please ask any questions and offer any suggestions you have!