Your first visit is all about your child’s comfort, happiness, and dental health
Your child’s first visit , typically includes:
- A complete review of your child’s dental and medical history.
- Appropriate digital x-rays.
- A dental cleaning/polishing and hygiene instruction performed by one of our highly trained dental assistants.
- An oral exam – The doctor will evaluate your child for their overall dental health including addressing orthodontic concerns.
Dr. Matt Talks About
Your First Visit
Bring your smile; but also remember to do the
following for your first dental appointment:
Arrive no less than 10 minutes early
Bring your insurance card
Preparing Your Child for a Positive Dental Experience
A positive dental experience starts with open communication and preparing your child for their visit. Begin by discussing the upcoming appointment with your child, reassuring them that the dentist and our team are here to make their visit comfortable and enjoyable. Let them know that our friendly dental professionals will explain each procedure and happily address any questions or concerns they may have.
When talking about the dentist with your child, it’s important to use language that promotes positivity and avoids triggering any negative feelings. Instead of using words like “needle,” “shot,” or “drill,” our dental team employs alternative terms that carry similar meanings but are designed to alleviate worries and create a more relaxed atmosphere for your child.
What is pediatric dentistry?
Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has at least two years of specialty training following dental school and limits his practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.
Baby teeth
Your child’s first teeth are temporary but crucial for development. These primary teeth aid in speaking, smiling, and chewing properly. They also maintain space for permanent teeth in the jaw. If a tooth is lost prematurely due to damage or decay, nearby teeth may shift, leading to misaligned or misplaced permanent teeth. Additionally, your child’s overall health is influenced by the condition of their teeth and gums.
Digital X-rays
Following the guidelines set forth by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, we recommend taking the first x-rays around 4 years of age depending on their risk of decay. None-the-less, we use a digital imaging system that insures minimal exposure and risk to your child.
Emergencies
As parents we love our children and wish they never had accidents but they are an unfortunate part of childhood. Dental emergencies can be particularly scary for parents and children. Dr. Matt is on-call 24/7 for dental emergencies. Please don’t hesitate to call if your child has a dental uh-oh.
Check-ups
If your child is under 24 months, the first visit is usually short and simple. In most cases, we focus on getting to know your child and giving you some basic information about dental care and growth. Dr. Matt will check your child’s teeth for placement and health, and look for any potential problems with the gums and jaw. If necessary, we may do a bit of cleaning and apply a fluoride treatment.
Sealants
Sealants are a preventative covering limited to the pits and fissures of teeth that are difficult to brush and more prone to cavities. We often recommend sealants as a safe and simple way to reduce your child’s risk of decay on permanent molars. Ask Dr. Matt about sealants at your next visit
Sedation
In rare instances there are children that are unable to sit through dental treatment due to age, anxiety or health concerns. For these patients we offer IV Sedation (sleep dentistry). If your child would benefit from IV Sedation we will be with you every step of the way to answer all questions you may have.
Practice Philospohy
At Smiles Dentistry, we provide exceptional pediatric dental care in a positive and comfortable environment. Our philosophy focuses on comprehensive dentistry for children, emphasizing prevention, education, and patient-centered care. With a fun and friendly atmosphere, we strive to create enjoyable dental experiences that promote good oral health habits. Our dedicated team prioritizes the comfort, happiness, and overall dental well-being of each child, ensuring personalized attention and healthy smiles.