We're so glad you're here! A first visit is where we start getting to know your child: what makes them laugh, what makes them nervous, and how they like to be talked to. It's also where we start becoming part of your family's team, and we hope to stay on it for years.
When to come in
We recommend a first visit soon after the first tooth appears, and no later than your child's first birthday. Starting early means their first memories of the dentist are good ones.
Is your child under 18 months? Schedule a complimentary infant visit.
What to expect
Plan about an hour for your first visit. Here's how it usually goes:
- Settle in: After you check in, your child can watch a movie or play in the waiting room while they get comfortable.
- Getting to know your child: Before getting started, one of our assistants will sit down with you to go over your child's health history and plan the visit. Tell us anything that helps, like fears, favorite things, or what works at home. Every detail helps us care for your child, not just kids in general.
- Show-and-tell: You'll sit right next to your child in the chair. Your assistant will do a cleaning, a fluoride treatment, and x-rays if they're needed. Every tool gets a show-and-tell first, so nothing is a surprise.
- Picture and play: We'll also take a first-visit photo and send it to you! While your child plays, we'll talk through brushing at home and answer your questions.
- Meet the doctor: Your child comes back to the chair for an exam with the dentist. The dentist will focus on connecting with your child and making them feel confident and comfortable throughout the process. Once the exam is complete, they will go over what they saw with you and make a plan that fits your child's needs.
- Pick a prize: After your child's exam, it's off to the prize wall to pick a fun new trinket to take home!
- Until next time: We'll help you check out and schedule your next visit before you head home.
Nervous? That's okay!
Lots of kids feel unsure about the dentist, and plenty of parents do, too. We'll take things at your child's pace. You know your child best, so we'll look to you to help us take care of your child in the ways that work best for them.
What to bring
- Your insurance card
- Your driver's license
See you in six months!
The American Dental Association recommends a checkup and cleaning every six months. For us, that's also how we keep getting to know your family.
