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On Your First Visit

Your Child's First Dental Visit

We recommend that your child have his/her first dental visit when the first tooth appears or by their 1st birthday. The earlier a child visits the dentist the more familiar and comfortable he/she will be for future visits. When discussing the first visit with your child try and have a positive conversation. It is best to refrain from using words that would enhance anxiety in your child (i.e. shot, needles, drill, or hurt). Our staff is trained to work around these words and try to make the child feel comfortable and excited to come see the dentist.

At what age should my child first visit the dentist?

The American Dental Association recommend that a visit to the dentist should be scheduled by the child's first birthday. At this young age problems can be detected, treated early, or avoided completely. More importantly, it can help establish a positive relationship between your child and the dentist.

What will happen during my child's first visit?

Dr. Michaelian will examine your child's teeth and gums, checking for decay and other problems or abnormalities in the mouth. Your child's bite, proper alignment of jaws, and spacing for permanent teeth will also be evaluated. A prophylaxis (cleaning) will be preformed as well a discussion of oral hygiene.
X-rays may be taken to evaluate for hidden decay, position and location of the developing permanent teeth. We will also discuss potential problems such as nursing decay, pacifier and thumb-sucking habits.

Dr. Michaelian and his staff will advise you on a program of preventive health care including brushing, flossing, proper nutrition, and the use of fluoride.

What do I tell my child about seeing the dentist?

Tell them that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will help them take care of their teeth. Talk about the visit in a positive matter of fact way, as you would any important new experience. Don't let the child know you feel any anxiety about going to the dentist and don't use a dental visit as a punishment or threat. 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. A visit to the dentist should be a delightful adventure for a young child.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact Dr. Andre Michaelian, by filling out our Online Contact Form.

Do I stay with my child during the visit?

As a father of three young children, I would want to be with my kids at all times. As such, we encourage all parents to stay with their children during an initial examination and during all future visits.

You may come with your child to the treatment room and be with your child during the entire treatment appointment. For the safety, comfort and privacy of all patients, other children, who are not being treated, are asked to remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.

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On Your First Visit

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