We Can’t Wait to Meet You!
Welcome to Smiles 1st Children’s Dentistry! Whether this is your child’s first visit, a special dental need, or you’ve had an unpleasant experience elsewhere, we’ve got this. We’re here to make going to the dentist as pleasant as a day at the park. And parents, you’re welcome to stay with your child during the entire visit.
Tips to Prepare for the First Visit:
Going to the dentist can be scary for a child. It doesn’t have to be. The earlier you introduce your child to the dentist, the more comfortable they’ll be. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends establishing a dental home by 12 months of age or within six months of his or her first tooth. Often, an infant or toddler’s first visit is simply a short icebreaker to establish the dentist’s office as a safe, friendly place. Taking the time to do this will make subsequent visits stress-free.
- Treat it as a casual sneak preview, not a serious event. Simply make sure your child is comfortable and understands everything that’s happening.
- Ask our staff if your child can walk back and quickly take a look around the office. We encourage each child to feel involved in the tour and explain what he or she is seeing to reassure them that this new environment isn’t scary at all.
- Plan your initial “preview visit” during a quiet time of day—that way, your child won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed.
While you’re here, we’ll share some tips on brushing, flossing, and other cavity-preventing habits.
What to Expect During Your Visit:
Here at Smiles 1st Children’s Dentistry, we’ve set up our offices to make anxious kids more comfortable at each visit—especially the first one.
Our kid-friendly waiting rooms are fun, relaxing and filled with TVs and games to help children feel comfortable before their dental examination. Spending a few extra minutes hanging out in a fun waiting area can be a perfect way to ensure a stress-free introduction.
- Your new patient visit will last approximately one hour and will begin with a tour of the office.
- Our welcoming staff will provide home-care instructions, a dental hygiene goody bag, and a new patient T-shirt.
- Dental x-rays will be completed as planned, and our registered dental hygienist will perform your child’s cleaning.
- The dentist will then provide a comprehensive oral evaluation then discuss findings and make recommendations to parents or guardians which will outline any existing dental problems and proposed treatment plan.
We want you and your child to leave here looking forward to your next visit at Smiles 1st Children’s Dentistry. See you soon!
