New Patients
Your Child's First Visit to the Dentist
If your child is anxious about visiting the dentist, take a positive approach. Give your child the encouragement they need and keep them informed about what's going to happen, so they feel comfortable and secure for their first visit.
Before the First Visit
By taking a positive approach, you can prepare your child for their first visit. Conveying good feelings about dental visits can help ease your child's anxiety. You can also explain to your child that the dentist will count and possibly take pictures of his/her teeth.
You may wish to assure your child that the dentist will be gentle and friendly. You can do this by not telling your child that the "dentist will hurt," as this may have never entered his/her mind. Also, please avoid using the words needle, shot, pull, or any other words that suggest unpleasantness. If you expect your child to do well and enjoy their visit, chances are that he/she will do exactly that.
The First Visit
We invite new patients to tour our office and meet our dental team. After meeting our dental team, we will then conduct an exam only if your child appears ready and willing. We strive to ensure that their first visit is a happy and positive experience.
After the examination, we will discuss any dental findings and recommend treatment. Based on the initial exam results, our team will help plan your child's dental treatment.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first visit to the dentist should occur by their first birthday. This helps the dentist evaluate your child's oral hygiene. Diet, fluoride, finger and pacifier habits, and tooth eruption will be reviewed.
