Children’s First Visit

You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. If your child is older, describe the visit, and tell him or her that the dentist and her dental team will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less “drama” you build concerning the visit, the better. Help your child understand that going to the dentist is a natural part of staying healthy and happy.

It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as “needle, shot, pull, drill, or hurt.” The office makes a practice of using words that convey the same message, which is pleasant and non-frightening to your child.

You are invited to stay with your child during the initial evaluation. During future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to accompany our dental team through the dental experience. We can usually establish a closer rapport with your child when you are not present. Our goal is to gain your child’s confidence and to overcome their apprehension. 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.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), the American Dental Association (ADA), and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) all recommend establishing a “Dental Home” for your child by the age of one. Children who have a dental home that they visit repeatedly are more likely to receive appropriate preventive and routine oral healthcare.