First Visit

Establishing a Dental Home for Your Child

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children have a “Dental Home” by their first birthday. Having a dental home ensures that your child receives consistent, preventive dental care, helping them maintain a healthy smile for years to come.

To prepare your child for their first visit, talk about the dentist as a friendly helper who takes care of teeth. Frame the experience positively and keep the conversation light and fun, just like any new adventure. Avoid expressing any concerns you may have about dental visits to help your child feel excited and confident. A visit to our office can be a fun and enjoyable experience for both you and your little one.

What to Expect During the First Visit

Your child’s first visit will be a gentle introduction to dental care. They’ll meet our friendly team and get familiar with the tools we use, like our tiny mouth mirror and tooth counter. This visit also provides an opportunity for you to learn key tips on how to care for your child’s teeth at home to keep them strong and healthy.

The dentist will then carefully examine your child’s teeth, gums, and mouth. For younger children, we often use a "lap exam" technique, where they sit on your lap facing you and lean back toward the dentist. This method helps keep your child comfortable while allowing us to perform a thorough exam quickly.

Personalized Care for Every Child

At Giggles Pediatric Dentistry, we understand that every child is unique. We take the time to consider their temperament, sensitivities, and any anxieties they might have. Our goal is to make each visit as stress-free as possible by customizing our approach to suit your child’s needs. If your child is nervous, we may adjust the appointment to keep things simple and gradual, ensuring they feel safe and comfortable.

We strive to make dental visits a positive experience that leaves your child excited to return. Building trust with your child is our priority, and we believe that positive visits, along with supportive words from both our team and parents, help create a lasting foundation for good dental health.

What Happens After the First Visit?

Depending on your child’s age and comfort level, we may perform a gentle teeth cleaning and apply fluoride treatment to help protect their teeth. X-rays are only taken when necessary and are typically introduced around age 4 to detect hidden decay and monitor the development of permanent teeth. We also conduct developmental assessments, and if orthodontic needs arise, we’ll refer you to trusted specialists. Should additional treatments like fillings be required, we will schedule follow-up appointments at a time that works best for you and your child.