The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that your child visit the dentist by his or her 1st birthday. Beginning dental care at an early age is important for a number of reasons. Many parents of infants and toddlers are not confident they are caring for their child’s teeth properly and can benefit greatly from the instruction we offer. Early visits provide opportunities to address other preventive issues that are vital to healthy teeth and a pleasing smile. Dental visits that are scheduled before problems develop can be kept short and help the child become relaxed in the dental environment more quickly.

Our goal for children under 3 is to make dental visits quick and easy. Dr. Darryl will provide a thorough examination and talk with you about any issues of concern while your child plays nearby. With each subsequent visit your child will mature and confidence and trust will most likely increase. After age 3, we will begin preventive care visits which include examination, cleaning, fluoride treatment and appropriate radiographs.

You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that Dr. Darryl and his staff will explain everything and answer any questions. If you approach the visit in a casual manner the chances are much better that your child will do the same. It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, shot, pull, drill or hurt. We make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.

Children Age 4 & Older – Dr. Darryl finds that children age 4 and older have the best dental experiences when they go back to the treatment area on their own.  Going back without mom or dad encourages good behavior when they feel like they’re being a “big boy” or “big girl.”  Please encourage your school aged children to be ready to go back and see Dr. Darryl while you wait for them in our lobby area.  Please understand that if your child should become upset or anxious we will not hesitate to come and get you.  Under those circumstances, we ask that whenever parents accompany children into the treatment area all other siblings not receiving dental treatment remain in the playroom with another adult.

Children Under the Age of 4 – if your child is under the age of 4, we invite you to accompany your child to the treatment area during their dental visits.  Dr. Darryl finds that he and his staff frequently need assistance from parents with most children in this age group.  Whenever possible we encourage parents to sit on our “parents bench” while your child is in the dental chair, so that your child can build a relationship with our staff.  We ask that whenever parents accompany children into the treatment area all other siblings not receiving dental treatment remain in the playroom with another adult.

We strive to make each and every visit to our office a fun one!
 

For your convenience prior to visiting our office, please click on the button below,  complete the form, and bring it with you to your first visit.