First Visit to the Dentist
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry,
recommends that your child visit the dentist by his/her 1st
birthday. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and
positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that
the dentist and their staff will explain all procedures and answer
any questions. The less to-do concerning the visit, the better.
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". The office makes a
practice of using words that convey the same message, but are
pleasant and non-frightening to the child.
We invite you to stay with your child during
the initial examination. During future appointments, we suggest you
allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental
experience. We can usually establish a closer rapport with your
child when you are not present. Our purpose is to gain your child's
confidence and overcome apprehension. However, if you choose, you
may come with your child to the treatment room. For the safety and
privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated
should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.
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