FIRST VISIT
ALL patients can expect to be greeted warmly by our friendly and fun staff!
Most first visits consist of a routine exam, cleaning and fluoride treatment (X-Rays will only be given as needed on a case by case basis). Dr. Marc will discuss any additional plan of treatment needed to give your child the healthiest and happiest smile they can have!
Our office follows the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s guidelines and recommends that your child’s first visit to the dentist be no later than the child’s first birthday. Children that begin early with their dental care, tend to have lower rates of decay because the child is less averse to the dental setting, parents are better educated, and early intervention (when necessary) can be accomplished.
We attempt to initiate your child into a lifelong positive attitude of the dentist and help alleviate any fears or anxiety your child may have. Just as each child is different, each “first dental visit” is different. Every child presents with different dental needs and different cognitive levels. For young children it is often necessary for the parent to assist in the initial examination of your child. During the first visit, we will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums, and make sure that all dental structures are developing normally. X-rays may be taken to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums. This helps address areas of concern so they do not become major problems later. If no problems are found, we may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. If further treatment is indicated, we will explain to you where the potential problems are located and recommend the necessary treatment. Each visit allows us to speak with parents about diet and habits, discuss prevention and teach the proper care for your child’s teeth.
Preparing Your Child
A child’s first dental visit influences his or her attitude toward dental care and oral health into adulthood. Therefore, it is important to establish positive feelings about “Going to the Dentist.”
Our staff is dedicated to providing thorough and gentle dental treatment. We work to make dental treatment as pleasant as possible. We also need your support in helping to make your child’s dental experience a satisfying one. Our office emphasizes the positive aspects of regular dental care and a healthy mouth. Tell your child that going to the dentist is an important part of growing up and staying healthy. Avoid projecting any fears that you might have about dental treatment. Instead, expect your child to react well and they probably will. Kindness is the best tool we can use to start your child on the road to a lifetime of good dental health. If your child is afraid, be reassuring, though young children may cry when faced with unfamiliar situations. Working together, we can overcome any apprehension your child may have.
X-Rays (Radiographs)
We take only those radiographs necessary for a complete diagnosis of your child’s dental health. Generally, cavity detecting x-rays are made annually. An x-ray of the complete mouth (Panorex) is usually taken around the age of six. This is to determine if your child has any pathology, missing or extra teeth, and predict future eruption problems.
Future Panoramic x-rays will be taken depending on the child’s needs, approximately every 3-5 years. We take all necessary precautions to reduce radiation risk to your child including the use of a lead apron, collimated x-ray machine, and the use of the latest digital x-ray technology.
DO I STAY WITH MY CHILD DURING THE VISIT?
We invite you to stay with your child during the initial examination. During future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental experience as we can usually establish a closer rapport with your child. Our purpose is to gain your child’s confidence and overcome apprehension. However, if you choose, you may come with your child to the treatment room. When possible, and for the safety and privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.