First Visit​​​

 

At What Age Should My Child Visit The Dentist?

 

We, as well as The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Dental Association, recommend that a visit to the dentist should be scheduled by the child's first birthday. By getting started at a young age, problems can be detected, treated early, or avoided completely. More importantly, it can help establish a positive relationship between your child and the dentist.

 

What Will Happen During My Child’s First Visit?

 

Dr. Lauren will do a complete comprehensive examination of your child’s teeth and mouth while checking for decay and any other abnormalities that may be present. Your child’s growth and development of the jaw, spacing for permanent teeth, proper alignment and occlusion (bite) will be evaluated as well. X-rays may be taken to look for hidden decay in between the teeth and to check on the proper development of the unerupted permanent teeth. A preventative dental prophylaxis (cleaning) will be completed including a fluoride treatment. Dr. Lauren and her staff will advise you on a program of preventive health care including brushing, flossing, proper nutrition, and the use of fluoride. They will also go over information on growth and development, what you need to know about preventing injuries to the mouth and teeth and provide a cavity risk assessment.

 

​What Do I Tell My Child About Seeing The Dentist?

It’s important to talk to your child in a positive manner about their first trip to the dentist. A visit to the dentist should be a delightful experience and Dr. Lauren and her staff do everything in their power to make it so! Most fear for children comes from fear of the unknown and a parent’s reassurance is invaluable. Feel free to let them know that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help them take care of their teeth and teach them all about it!

Do I Stay With My Child During the Visit?

 

We welcome you to stay with your child during the initial examination if you would like to. During future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental experience. We ask this because it allows us to establish a closer rapport with your child when you are not present and helps us to gain their trust. This helps your child build confidence and overcome any apprehension they might have. Separation anxiety is not uncommon and will soon diminish, so please try not to be concerned if your child exhibits some negative behavior. Studies and experience have shown that children over the age of three react more positively when permitted to experience a dental visit on their own. Pediatric dentists and their staff are specially trained and experienced to help apprehensive young patients feel good about seeing the dentist and to make every visit an enjoyable one! Compassionate and caring staff along with a cheerful and fun environment are there to help your child feel comfortable and at ease. Dr. Lauren even welcomes parents to come back once treatment is started to check in on their child and get a thumbs up! If for any reason you feel the need to accompany your child through future dental appointments, Dr. Lauren is happy to discuss this with you, as well as any questions and concerns you might have.