The First Visit (age 3 and up)

The first visit is an excellent opportunity for your child to experience an enjoyable and educational introduction to dental care. We have found that a parent’s attitude toward dental and medical care sends a strong message to the children. It is important for parents to be positive and honest.

Our typical first visit starts with introductions to the office staff and doctor, and familiarization with the office environment. Many children respond well to watching a short animated presentation about the first dental visit. We will proceed to evaluate your child’s personal and family dental and medical histories, provide oral hygiene instructions and dietary recommendations. We utilize the “Tell-Show-Do” principle to describe what we will do in terms your child can understand. Normally, we will polish your child’s teeth with the flavor of choice, apply fluoride for protection from decay, take only the necessary X-rays for a proper evaluation, and perform an oral examination. All findings, recommendations and your concerns will then be discussed with the doctor.

In order to set the atmosphere for a pleasant experience, please do not allow anyone to make cruel and fearful jokes or comments about dentists or dental visits to your child. While most everyone has some degree of anxiety about new people and places, comments about “shots” “pulling teeth” or “hurting” will only serve to make a child anxious and fearful. Please work with our highly professional staff to be a responsible and supportive role model, and stress the value and importance of clean and healthy teeth for yourself and your children.