We recommend your child’s First Official Appointment occurs when the first tooth comes in, usually between six and twelve months of age. Early examination and preventive care will protect your child’s smile now and in the future. Our entire staff is dedicated to providing thorough and gentle dental care.   We strive to make each child’s dental visit as pleasant as possible.

You can play a large part in preparing your child for his/her first visit to the dentist. We would like to make a few suggestions to prepare your youngster for the initial visit:

• First, present the visit as an exciting experience (for yourself) and for your child.

• Second, tell the child that we "will count", "brush", and "take pictures of their teeth."  By explaining the exam and the cleaning in these terms, your child will better understand the situation.

• Try to act relaxed and at ease. Your child will probably sense any anxiety on your part.

• Avoid negative phrases such as "hurt", "drill", "pull", and "shot'. This initial examination involves nothing uncomfortable and should be perceived by the child as non-threatening.  It is our job to make this the best positive experience possible.

Before any procedures are started, we show and tell your child what we are going to do. Occasionally, a child may cry during some part of the visit. This is normal behavior and usually the child will work their way through it with our compassionate coaxing.

The First "Official" Visit consists of a complete dental exam and cleaning which includes checking for cavities and gum disease, checking the bite for correct alignment of the jaws, checking the development of the teeth, and x-rays will be taken based on the needs of your child. The appointment also includes a final consultation to discuss any further questions or necessary dental treatment. Each child will receive a new toothbrush and floss and instructions on how to use them. Every appointment ends with a special picture of your child and a trip to the prize box for a job well done!

Please print the New Patient Health History Form, complete the information, and bring it with you on your first visit, along with your insurance card.

To print the form you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader.  If you do not have Adobe Acrobat, please click here to download it for free to your computer.