Our goal with our young patients is to establish a trusting relationship and to make each appointment a success. Starting a child’s dental visit at a young age (ideally after the first tooth and around the first birthday) allows the experience to become a natural part of life. Prevention is the key to health! We look not only at teeth but how a child breathes, his or her tongue habits, allergies, gum health, as well as jaw and facial development. Catching developmental problems and dental decay at an early age reduces treatment time and costs throughout the child’s life.
What to Expect
A great place to begin a good experience at our dental office is with toys and fun books in our kids’ waiting area. After playtime, one of our friendly assistants will seat you and your child. For the very young, a lap exam may be done. The older child will enjoy a ride in the dental chair and meeting Mr. Thirsty and Mr. Squirty (air, water, suction). We may not accomplish everything on the first appointment, sometimes adding a new procedure (polish, radiographs, etc.) with each check up. We attempt to not make the visit over-long for your child, yet give you plenty of time to ask questions. A balloon or a visit to the Treasure box ends each appointment!
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Visit
Keep it positive! Children on their own will not be afraid of the dentist. Avoid telling your child any fears or bad experiences that you or someone you know may have had. Be excited, practice opening your mouth wide and talk about brushing teeth. Avoid terms such as hurt (“I’m sure the dentist won’t hurt you!”), drill, and shot (“you probably won’t get a shot this time”).
- Bring a favorite toy
- Read books about going to the dentist. The library has a good selection.
- Play “Dentist” by looking in each other’s mouth and counting teeth.
- Be a role model by brushing and flossing your own teeth in front of your child.
We want your child to have a long healthy life free of dental disease.
This is a great gift you are giving your child!