Your Child’s First Visit
Preparing the way for a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums
A Positive Start to Dental Care
A child’s first dental visit is very important. We recommend that your child’s first visit take place by their first birthday, as supported by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
This early visit gives us the opportunity to begin a preventive oral health program, help reduce the risk of cavities, offer guidance about nutrition, and answer your questions as a parent.
It also helps establish a dental home for your child. If a dental emergency ever happens, your child can receive care in a familiar office where their health history and records are already available.
During the First Appointment
During the first appointment, Dr. Bennett and her team will focus on getting to know your child, helping them feel comfortable, and gathering a detailed medical and dental history.
You can expect the following:
- An office tour with a member of our team
- Familiarization with the dental equipment being used
- A complete dental examination
- Age-appropriate dental cleaning
- X-rays, which we like to call “pictures,” if needed
- Fluoride application, as needed
- A detailed treatment plan, if treatment is needed
- A preventive oral hygiene plan
- Guidance about brushing and flossing, including toothbrush selection
- Discussion about diet, habits, and fluoride needs
Questions and Treatment Recommendations
Any findings will be discussed with you, and recommended procedures will be carefully explained. We will also answer any questions you may have.
As a parent, you can help make your child’s first dental visit positive and enjoyable. Simple, calm preparation before the appointment can make a big difference.
How to Prepare Your Child
Tell your child about the visit and its purpose, but be careful with the words you use. You may show your child pictures of Dr. Bennett and other happy children on our website before the visit.
Avoid words that may cause fear, such as “needle,” “shot,” “pinch,” “drill,” or “hurt.”
Pediatric dentists have special training to help children with fears and anxiety. Our team explains care in a calm, non-threatening way and works to help each child feel comfortable and safe.
Parents During the Visit
We encourage parents to accompany their child during the initial exam. This gives you the opportunity to become familiar with our practice and gives your child a familiar hand to hold during the first visit.
If future treatment visits are needed, one parent is welcome in the room. We kindly ask that you act as a quiet observer so our team can focus completely on your child and help build a safe, comfortable relationship.
Many children age three and older do well when they experience the visit independently with our specialized pediatric dental team.
Our Goal
We work hard to make each child’s first visit a good and memorable one, so they can develop a lifelong interest in keeping their teeth and gums healthy.
We look forward to serving your family and supporting your child’s long-term dental health.
We Love Kids!
“We look forward to the opportunity to care for your child and meet their dental needs. A child’s first dental visit is important, and we work hard to help every child feel comfortable and relaxed.”
Dr. Jane Bennett D.D.S.
Dr. Jane Bennett D.D.S.
Links to Additional Resources
Here are some helpful dental resources for parents and children.