First visit
Four stops from nervous to 'when can we come back?'
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by the first birthday, or within six months of the first tooth erupting.
Age 1
First visit recommended
30–45 min
Typical first appointment
Every 6 mo
Routine checkups
Before you board
Pack the ticket, the card, and a grown-up
Health form
Fill out the new patient health form online before you arrive.
Insurance card
Bring your dental insurance card and photo ID.
A grown-up
A parent or guardian must accompany patients under 18.
10 extra minutes
Arrive a little early so your child can explore the station.
The route
What happens, stop by stop
Stop 01
At home, before you leaveBefore the first visit
Talk with your child about the positive parts of the visit — healthy teeth and a good smile. Explain that the doctor will count and take pictures of their teeth. You play a large role in your child's perception of the dental experience, so a relaxed, comfortable attitude goes a long way. If your child becomes afraid, be reassuring; young children often cry when faced with unfamiliar situations. Working together, we can overcome any apprehension your child may have. Expect your child to do well and enjoy the visit and chances are they will do just that.
Stop 02
First 10 minutesBoarding & the conference
The visit begins with a review of your child's health history, followed by a discussion about dental hygiene, diet, fluoride, finger habits and tooth eruption. This is a great opportunity to ask Dr. Greg any questions or voice concerns about your child's dentition.
Stop 03
Meet the teamMeeting the crew
Your child is introduced to our dental team and picks out his or her own toothbrush. Depending on age, dental radiographs may be taken along with a cleaning and fluoride treatment.
Stop 04
The examCounting teeth
Dr. Greg performs a head and neck examination and evaluates the health of the teeth, gums and your child's bite — we call this process 'counting' teeth. If additional services are needed, they are scheduled for a later visit.
Parent playbook
Working together beats worrying alone
A calm, confident parent is the single biggest advantage a nervous child can have. Here is what helps — and what backfires.
Do
- Keep your own tone light and matter-of-fact.
- Use friendly words: “count,” “pictures,” “clean.”
- Read a book about visiting the dentist beforehand.
- Schedule mornings for younger kids, when they are freshest.
Don’t
- Don’t promise “it won’t hurt” — let us explain each step instead.
- Don’t use the dentist as a threat or punishment.
- Don’t share your own dental fears in front of your child.
- Don’t rush in from a missed nap or skipped meal.
Ready to book the ride?
Call the station and we will get your child on the schedule, then hand them a ticket for the next trip.
Infants welcome — first visit by age one.