What To Expect On Your Child's First Visit
Let Us Help Introduce Your Children To Dental Health
Your Child’s First Visit
We are always happy to welcome new patients to our practice! Just as your child has several well-child visits to the pediatrician as an infant, getting your child comfortable with coming to the dentist starts early and allows us to help promote a future of happy, healthy smiles.
According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should have the 1st dental visit by their first birthday!
Your initial visit will provide a friendly, caring introduction to our dental home where lifelong relationships begin. The time spent with your child will include dental education, nutritional counseling, growth & development evaluation, a dental cleaning, fluoride varnish application, and a comprehensive exam.
As important as it is for our young patients to be happy and comfortable, we feel the exact same way about parents. Our families love our fun and kid-friendly approach to preventive and restorative care and dental health education.
We’re a unique dental office that caters to our patients and patient’s families; this is why we always welcome you as parents to accompany your child during their visits to our office.
We ask all new patients to arrive at least 15 minutes before their scheduled appointment to fill out the necessary paperwork/online forms. Here are some additional items you will need that will help your first visit go smoothly:
” Insurance Cards
” X-Rays taken within the last 6 months (if applicable)
” List of Medications (if applicable)
” New Patient Paperwork (filled out through online forms)
” Legal Guardianship Papers (if applicable)
We look forward to serving you and your family soon!
How Can I Prepare For My Child’s First Dental Visit?
There are several things parents can do to make the first visit enjoyable. Here are a couple suggestions:
- Explain to your child why they are going to the dentist. Tell them that Dr. Bobby wants to make sure your teeth are healthy and clean, and that he and his helpers will explain everything before they get started!
- Reading books about going to the dentist or “playing dentist” at home beforehand can be beneficial. If you child has a favorite stuffy, bring it to the visit so Dr. Bobby can check its teeth as well!
- Maintaining a relaxed and positive attitude helps immensely. Try to convey a sense of calm, even if you might have some butterflies about the 1st visit yourself!
- If possible, it is best to refrain from using words that can cause apprehension like needle, pull, drill, or hurt. Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using gentle terminology that conveys the same message but is typically better received by little ones.
If you have questions or concerns about your child’s first dental visit, please contact My Kids Hometown Dentist.