New Patient Forms

Whether this is your child's first dental visit or first visit with us, having a positive attitude will make a great impression on your child.  If you have scheduled an initial exam, we will be doing a complete examination of your child's mouth, teeth and supporting tissues.  In addition, we will evaluate the occlusion (the way teeth bite).  A fair amount of time will be spent discussing the causes and prevention of dental disease.  We will review your child's oral hygiene, fluoride intake and diet.  Indicated radiographs (x-rays) will be recommended to assure a thorough and comprehensive evaluation.  Your child's teeth will be cleaned and a topical fluoride applied.  Following all of this, the examining doctor will discuss any treatment recommendations and answer any questions you may have.

Preparing Your Child

Our office takes pride in the time spent showing and explaining each procedure to our patients.  Nothing is done before the child sees and understands what is going to take place.  In preparation for the initial exam, it is usually adequate for you to tell your child, "You are going to visit Dr._______, your new dentist who will count your teeth, give you a new toothbrush, take some pictures of your teeth and brush your teeth."  Leave the rest to us!

If you feel you must go into more detail, be sure to avoid negative or fear provoking words.  Please do not use phrases such as, "Don't worry, it won't hurt", or "They won't be using a drill". Keep it simple and be positive.  If you have never experienced a pediatric dental office, you are in for a very delightful surprise! Expect your child to react well and enjoy the visit.  More than likely, this is exactly what will happen.

Parents in the Treatment Room

The most important element of a successful dental visit is the ability to communicate with your child.  This assures an understanding of what is happening. Competition for your child's attention may interfere with this goal.  For this reason it is preferable, in most cases, for parents to remain in the reception area.  Of course there are exceptions, as some children, especially younger ones, do better with a parent present.  Please trust our judgment!  Should your presence be necessary we ask you to remain as a silent partner.  In that way, we can devote our full attention to your child and your child can devote his/her full attention to us.

In spite of all your preparation, it is possible that your child may still feel apprehensive and cry.  Please do not be discouraged or upset by this.  Crying is a normal reaction of children to new experiences.  Every effort will be made to make each visit enjoyable and pleasant. 

If you have any questions prior to your visit, please contact us.