Along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend that a child’s first dental visit be scheduled by his or her 1st birthday. It is very important to make the first visit as positive and enjoyable for the child as possible. We want your child to enjoy getting to know our doctors and staff and be comfortable at all times. A pleasant, comfortable first visit builds trust and helps put the child at ease during future dental visits. Let the child know that the doctors and staff will explain everything in detail and will answer any questions he or she has. Children should be encouraged to discuss any fears or anxiety they feel.
Parents should not make a big deal out of the visit and refrain from using any words that could cause unnecessary fear, such as “needle” or “drill.” We are experienced in dealing with children with anxiety and can explain treatment procedures in a positive and pleasant manner to avoid any anxious or negative feelings toward dentistry.
We will record the child’s dental and medical history, complete a comprehensive examination and discuss any findings with you. We will also review the importance of maintaining a good dental health program with you and your child to ensure a healthy and beautiful smile for life!
We will spend time educating you and your child on proper tooth brushing and flossing techniques. We will discuss proper diet and avoiding cavity-causing foods like fruit snacks, juice and frequent snacking on carbohydrates. We will discuss X-ray recommendations for children, fluoride recommendations and treatment recommendations when necessary.
How Parents Can Help
We feel that parental involvement is extremely important. You are welcome to participate in your child’s first appointment. Preparing your child for the first visit by reading recommended books, playing pretend dentist and being positive about the dental experience is very helpful. We enjoy establishing a trusting friendship with each child and their parents. We recommend that parents use our gentle dental terminology and avoid sharing any of their own negative dental experiences with their child. Together we can help your child have a positive outlook on dentistry!
Recommended Books
- Barney Goes to the Dentist by Linda Cress Dowdy
- Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer
- The Bernstein Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan
Gentle Dental Terminology
- “We’re going to count your teeth.” – a dental examination
- “Tooth counter” – an explorer
- “Mr. Tickles” – a prophy brush
- “We’re going to take pictures of your teeth.” – taking X-rays
- “Vitamins for your teeth” – fluoride treatment
- “Mr. Thirsty” – suction
- “Tooth boo-boos” – cavities
- “Tooth bouncer” – a slow-speed drill
- “Tooth whistler” – a high-speed drill
- “Silver star” – an amalgam (silver) filling
- “White star” – a composite (white) filling
- “Princess cap” – a stainless steel crown
- “Pirate cap” – a stainless steel crown
- “We’re going to fix the boo-boo on your tooth.” – filling a cavity
- “Sleepy juice” – Novacain
- “We’re going to wiggle a tooth.” – extracting (pulling) a tooth
- “Jelly” – a topical anesthetic
- “Tooth paint” or “Tooth polish” – a sealant