Getting an early start in regular dental care is an important step on the road to teaching your child healthy habits to last a lifetime. At the first visit, we’ll share with you the latest available methods for keeping your child healthy and safe.
The first dental visit should occur shortly after the first tooth erupts and no later than the child’s first birthday. At the first visit we will present:
- A program of preventive home care including brushing, flossing, diet and the importance of fluorides.
- A caries (tooth decay) risk assessment.
- If age appropriate, information about Early Childhood Caries, which may be due to inappropriate nursing habits or inappropriate use of sippy cups.
- The latest facts about finger, thumb and pacifier habits.
- What you need to know about preventing injuries to the mouth and teeth.
- Information on growth and development.
Before the First Visit
Please discuss the positive aspects of dentistry with your child. You play a large part in preparing your child for his/her first visit to the dentist. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Any anxiety on your part will probably be sensed by your child.
Please do not tell your child that the “dentist will not hurt,” as this possibility may never have entered his or her mind. Instead, you may wish to assure your child that the dentist will be gentle and friendly. Also, please avoid using the words needle, shot, pull, or any other words suggesting unpleasantness. We will explain each of our procedures to your child in terms he or she can understand before we perform them.
If your child is afraid, be reassuring. Young children often cry when faced with unfamiliar situations. Working together, we can overcome any apprehension your child may have. Expect your child to do well and enjoy their visit to our office and chances are they will do just that!
The First Visit
Our staff will review the health history form with you at the first visit. Your child will be introduced to our dental team and invited to tour the office. You are welcome to accompany your child into the treatment area during the initial exam. This will give you the opportunity to see our staff in action and give our dentists the opportunity to discuss any dental findings and treatment directly with you. Your dentist will perform a head and neck examination and then evaluate the health of the teeth, gums and your child’s bite. For infants and some toddlers, this will all be completed while your child remains in your lap. For older children, this will be completed in the dental chair and they will then receive a dental cleaning and fluoride application. Dental radiographs (x-rays) are taken only when they are necessary. In most cases, Additional services will be scheduled for a later visit
Crying
While your child may never think to cry, please try not to be upset if your child does cry. This is a normal reaction to the unknown, and we are trained to help fearful children through their dental experience. As your child matures, part of our goal is to encourage their independence and promote their self-esteem.
We will treat your child as our own, and perform the dental service in the easiest and safest way possible.
Expectant Mothers
With a baby on the way, we know you have a long list of things that have to be accomplished, but don’t forget your oral health! Your oral health is an important part of your overall health and that of your unborn baby. Below are a few facts and tips to help you through this hectic time:
- A recent study has linked the bacteria frequently associated with gum disease, P. gingivalis, with pre-term, low birth weight babies.
- Brush and floss daily to reduce the amount of bacteria on your teeth and, in turn, decrease the chance of any unfavorable effects on your unborn child.
- While eating for two, limit frequent snacking on foods high in sugars and starches like chips, candy and cookies. These types of snacks can lead to cavities.
- Maintain a healthy diet throughout your pregnancy. Your balanced diet during pregnancy is important for the proper development of your unborn baby. Baby teeth and permanent teeth begin developing during pregnancy.
- Continue to see your general dentist at regular intervals during your pregnancy. You will most likely have a lot more time for this before the baby is born!
Paperwork
If you would like to complete paperwork prior to your child’s appointment time, please complete the forms online and hit the “submit” button. If you prefer to complete these forms in our office, please arrive 10-15 minutes prior to your scheduled visit time.
We request a copy of your insurance card if applicable.