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The
purpose of the first visit is to establish a positive relationship with
your child, to evaluate your child’s dental health as a guide to future
treatment, and to answer your questions. Our entire staff is dedicated to
providing your child with an enjoyable dental experience. You, as parents,
play a very important role in preparing your child for the initial visit.
First, be completely natural and easy-going when you tell your child about
the appointment. Present the visit as an opportunity to meet some new
people who are interested in him or her and want to help him or her stay
healthy. Second, tell your child that we will "count" the teeth
and that we may "brush" or "take pictures" of the
teeth. We try to use child-friendly terms and simple explanations to
describe dental instruments and procedures. Our intention is to create an
atmosphere that is friendly and non-threatening for your child.
If
your child’s mouth is to develop and grow properly, the first (primary)
teeth must be healthy. Parents are encouraged to be with their child
during this and all subsequent visits. Usually during this first visit we:
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Examine
the erupted teeth for cavities, the gums for infection, and the other
mouth tissues for abnormalities ("count the teeth").
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Evaluate
occlusion (the way teeth come together) and the jaw joint.
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Check
for sufficient room for the permanent teeth.
-
Determine
the effects of childhood habits (e.g. thumb sucking, pacifiers,
bottles, etc.)
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May
take selected x-rays ("pictures") of the mouth to locate
decay, infections in the bone, and position and location of unerupted
teeth. To assure that every precaution is taken for the safety of your
child during x-ray procedures, we use a digital x-ray system, which
supplies up to 90% less radiation than conventional x-rays. All
children wear a lead apron with thyroid collar during x-rays.
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Will
review preventive measures, such as proper tooth brushing, flossing,
fluoride, and diet.
-
Will
clean ("brush") your child’s teeth and apply a topical
fluoride treatment, if your child is cooperative.
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If
your child is suffering from dental pain (toothache, etc.) emergency
treatment will be given.
We
strive to make this first visit as easy as possible. If your child is not
old enough to climb up onto our "bench" seats, we will do a
"lap to lap" exam with your child on your lap.
We
follow the guidelines of both the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
and the American Dental Association and recommend that your child come in
for the first dental visit around 12 months of age. At the one-year visit,
we will do an oral examination with your child on your lap. We will
discuss normal growth and development, proper oral hygiene for infants,
fluoride supplements, teething, bottle use, pacifier or other finger
habits, what to do in case of trauma, and answer any other questions you
may have. Children who have their first dental experience when they are
very young are likely to have a favorable outlook toward dental care
throughout their lives.
We
welcome children with special needs to our office.
At
the first visit, after the x-rays are interpreted and the examination is
completed, your child’s oral health, proposed treatment, number of
appointments needed, and your role as a parent in your child’s dental
care will be discussed. We will inform you of the estimated treatment fee
and the financial plans available.
You may click on the button below to print our
PATIENT
INFORMATION FORMS.
Please fill out
both forms completely in pen, including your signature, and bring them with you to the
first visit.
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