What to Expect: New Patients  

We are excited and look forward to meeting you and your child at your initial appointment.
Our goal is to build a relationship with you and your child over the next several years in a
comfortable environment that promotes good oral health care.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and our office recommend that your child visits
the pediatric dentist by his/her 1st birthday. It is our goal to make your child’s first
appointment informative and fun. You can help make the first visit to the pediatric dentist
enjoyable and positive by informing your child of the visit and telling them that the dentist
and staff will explain everything to them.

It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear or anxiety, 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. If you are anxious about the dentist, please don’t convey this to your child. We want to help your child develop a positive opinion of the dentist.

During the first appointment, a thorough dental exam will be performed.  A dental cleaning, fluoride treatment and x-rays will also be performed based upon your child’s needs and your acceptance.
Home care instructions and diet counseling will be reviewed.  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 we have their full attention.

Our purpose is to gain your child's confidence and overcome apprehension.  We are all highly experienced
in helping children overcome anxiety. Separation anxiety is not uncommon in children, so please try not
to be concerned if your child exhibits some negative behavior. This is normal and will soon diminish. Studies and experience have shown that most children over the age of 3 react more positively when permitted to experience the dental visit on their own and in an open environment designed for children.

For your convenience, we have provided with the following forms for you to complete and bring with you
on your first visit to our practice:

New Patient Health History Form  |  Initial Oral Health Questionnaire
Generalized Informed Consent   |   Responsible Party Information
Financial Agreement