Your Child’s First Visit

WHAT TO EXPECT:

We welcome all parents to accompany their child in the back!

The first visit to the dentist for your child can be both exciting and a little uncertain for you and your child. Your child’s first dental visit will be informative and a great introduction into the importance of oral health for a lifetime.

Your first visit is a great opportunity for your child to become familiar with the simple instruments we use in the dental office and our helpful and friendly staff. Your child will be encouraged to sit in the dental chair for his/her cleaning and fluoride treatment and take Dental radiographs or x-rays which are a vital part of a complete dental exam. These radiographs will be taken only if your child is comfortable.

Your child will have their teeth cleaned and polished, with flavored prophy paste of their choice and a dental exam will be completed by the dentist. The dentist will be checking for decay, making sure that all teeth are erupting at the appropriate time, and looking for any irregularities. You will be informed of any areas of concern and educated about any treatment that is necessary. In addition, we use flavored prophy paste to make the experience more enjoyable. The dentist or staff will also discuss with you and your child proper nutrition and dental hygiene. Specific suggestions may be made based upon your child’s needs. This is also an opportunity to ask any dental questions or mention any concerns that you may have.

Do not become discouraged if your child’s behavior is not what you expected at their first dental visit. Our highly trained staff is aware of all the emotions that can come out during a first dental visit. We will do all that we can to make your child’s experience a positive one! Call today for an appointment. 561-279-4080

WHERE WILL YOU BE:

It is your choice whether you want to be in the examination room with your child or wait in the waiting room. For younger children, we encourage parents to stay in the room to help comfort the child during their first few visits. We will perform a “knee-to-knee” exam where the teeth and gums are examined to evaluate a child’s growth and development. Older children will be encouraged to sit in the dental chair.

THINGS TO KNOW:

For the first visit, please bring a completed New Patient Form ( download here) as well as your child’s full Medical History Form ( download here). Be sure to let our staff know if your child has any medical conditions or is taking any medications. Please let us know if your child sucks his/her thumb, pacifier, etc.

We look forward to working together with you as a team to make sure your child has the best experience!

Before your first visit, however, there are several things you can do to prepare:

• Talk to your child about what to expect at the dentist, so there are no surprises
• Build excitement about the appointment to help reduce any anxiety your child may feel
• Practice brushing so that your child gets used to a toothbrush being in his/her mouth