Prepare your child for their first visit by taking a positive approach. Try to convey good feelings about dental visits and express to your child that visiting the dentist is a part of growing up. Please do not say “the dentist isn’t going to hurt you” instead say “the dentist is going to sparkle your teeth and count them and show us how to keep them healthy”.

Please do not use the dental visit as a punishment. Some parents may think it is funny to tell their child that if they are bad while at the dentist then the dentist will give them a shot or pull out their teeth. This only scares the child and makes for an unpleasant first visit. Expect that your child will do well and chances are they will.

Parents are encouraged to accompany their child during the visit. We ask that during the appointment the parent remain a “silent partner” since it can be difficult for a child to pay attention to more than one person at a time.

Please understand that crying can be a normal reaction for young children.