First Visit

Both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend a child’s first dental visit by one year of age. Since dental decay is largely preventable, parents must receive the information needed to give their child the gift of healthy teeth and gums. Our practices are guided by the principles of being supportive, collaborative, and prevention-oriented.

We create a safe environment at an early age to foster rapport and trust with both our patients and their parents. We encourage healthy dietary and hygiene habits that translate into a positive lifetime dental experience. Because each child is unique, we are committed to educating parents and tailoring a holistic, preventive dental game plan specific to each child.

Preparing for the First Dental Visit

The old school dental horror stories are a thing of the past. Keeping in mind the goal of a positive dental experience for the child, please try to focus on encouragement and fun when discussing an upcoming dental visit. For babies, begin brushing their teeth as soon as they erupt, so an oral examination is not entirely foreign to the child.

If any adult in the child’s world has had a negative dental experience, try your best not to transfer anxiety to the child, who at a young age has a blank canvas on which we together can influence the dental experience. For children who require extra preparation, it is often helpful to visit the office in advance of the first appointment or to view these online videos of our Westminster office and Louisville office. Bringing a beloved stuffed animal, or another security object for the child to the appointment is also helpful.

Topics to Be Reviewed During the First Visit

•  The role of cavity-causing bacterial transmission
•  Diet
•  Brushing/flossing
•  Judicious home fluoride use
•  Teething and dental development
•  Pacifier, thumb sucking, teeth grinding and other habits
•  Histories of dental/oral trauma

What Happens at the First Visit?

1. Parents and children are welcomed to the office. Parents are offered coffee, tea, and internet access. Children may play in the reception area with toys and blocks, or they can color or read.
2. At the appointed time, the parent and child are taken to the examination area.
3. The dentist reviews with the parent the child’s medical history. Parents are encouraged to share any special circumstances, such as sensory issues or unique developmental or behavioral needs.
4. Dietary patterns and habits such as thumb sucking, pacifier, and teeth grinding are discussed.
5. The dentist will complete an examination of the teeth and gums. A technique called tell-show-do allows the child to see what will be done while the dentist explains the examination process with age-appropriate verbiage.
6. If the child is able to cooperate, a cleaning and fluoride treatment will be completed. We have many flavors from which the child may choose.
7. If indicated, diagnostic X-rays will be recommended. Modern digital radiography has resulted in smaller, better tolerated child-size films and lower radiation.
8. Children love our treasure tower, where a large selection of high-quality toys rewards the child for his/her efforts when their appointment is over. While parents check out at the front desk, the No Cavity Club and other contest entries are offered.