When preparing your child for his/her first visit, use fun and positive words to discuss the upcoming visit. Avoid using words such as needle, pull, drill or pain that will inflict unnecessary apprehension in your child. Our office uses a standard practice of using pleasant words that will convey the same message and not seem frightening to the child.
If a parent has anxiety when going to the dentist, please try not to reflect these feelings toward your child. You will find our office approach is very different from a general dental office. The staff will use the technique of Show and Tell to explain things to your child. Your child will not be left alone, as one of the staff members will be there at all times to comfort and answer questions as needed. Many children actually do better when they are not in view of their parents. This allows the doctor and/or staff to have your child's undivided attention. Our doors are always open, and you are always welcome to check on your child. However, if you feel your child needs you at the chairside, you are welcome, but please observe only.
Please be aware, that operative treatment, such as filling and extractions will not be done on the first visit (unless it is an emergency situation and treatment is needed right away). We use this first visit to get to know your child, gain your child's confidence in us, access your child's dental needs and evaluate behavior to determine the best approach to take in treatment if needed.