Your Child's First Visit
The sooner the better, and easier than you'd think.
First dental visits come with a lot of questions, and maybe a few nerves (yours included). That’s completely normal. Our job is to make this first experience so calm and positive that your child actually wants to come back. Here’s everything you need to know before you walk through our doors.
When should my child first see the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends your child’s first visit happen as soon as their first tooth appears, usually around their first birthday.
Why so early? Because this first visit sets the tone for everything that follows. It’s the start of a positive relationship between your child, your family, and your dental team. It also lets us track how your child’s teeth and jaw are developing, and catch any small concerns while they’re still easy to handle.
We welcome patients from infancy all the way through young adulthood.
How to prepare for the big day
A little prep goes a long way.
Here’s how to set your child up for a great first visit:
GET YOUR CHILD EXCITED
Tell your child about the visit in a fun, positive way.
Practice at home
Have your child practice opening their mouth “big like a dinosaur” so they’re ready when we count and check their teeth.
Read or watch together
Books and videos about first dental visits can help your child feel confident about what’s coming.
Knock out the paperwork early
Filling out new patient forms at home is faster and easier than doing it in the waiting room.
Bring your questions
Teething, thumb-sucking, pacifier use, braces – whatever’s on your mind. We’re happy to walk you through it.
What actually happens at the visit
No surprises here. This is exactly how your child’s first visit will go.
Our doctors will gently examine their teeth and jaw to make sure everything is developing the way it should. For little ones, you’re welcome to hold your child on your lap during the exam so they feel safe the whole time. We’ll check for any mouth injuries, cavities, or concerns, then clean your child’s teeth and send you home with some goodies and simple tips for daily care.
And if your child cries a little or wiggles around? Don’t worry for a second. It’s completely normal, and our team has seen it all. We know this is a brand new experience, and we’re right there with you to make it a good one.
First visits are kind of our specialty.
“We went for our first dentist appointment today and everyone was wonderful. I was nervous on how my little girl was going to react and Dr Singh and her staff made us all feel so comfortable. I would highly recommend bringing your child here, we will sure be back!”
— Melissa P.
“I’m anxious about anything dental myself and it was very important for me to find the right provider for my kid. The service at this practice, the experience, the quality, the engagement, the personnel – everything was exceptional, and it helped us so much to make a good first dental visit. Definitely recommend it.”
— Yuri G.
A few tips for a smooth visit
Pick the right time. Avoid naptime. Book a slot when your child is usually well-rested and in good spirits. Morning is usually best.
Have a light meal first. A small meal and a tooth-brushing before the appointment means your child won't be hungry during the visit.
Save the snacks for after. Keep treats for the car ride home so they're not on your child's teeth during the exam.
Keep it positive. Treat the appointment like the fun, happy thing it is. And if your child gets upset, we'll work through it together. We're always on the same team.
GETTING STARTED
Find your child's perfect match.
Whatever your child needs, there’s a doctor here ready to help them smile. We’re welcoming new patients and would love to meet your family.