First Visit

Your Child’s First Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), American Dental Association (ADA), and American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) all recommend that your child visit the dentist as soon as the first tooth erupts, or by 12 months of age. Our office likes to see your children at this time so that we can emphasize prevention and help your kids stay cavity-free from the beginning. Dr. Luu spends time discussing home care instructions, nutritional counseling, and anticipatory guidance on what you can expect for your child’s future dental needs. We do our best to ensure your child has a positive experience. Please inform your child of the visit and reassure them that the dentist and their staff will explain what will happen and guide them.  Please be assured that if your child is nervous,  we will comfort them, as we are specially trained to work with children.  Our goal is to create an environment where children feel safe and comfortable, while making it fun and enjoyable.

Before the first visit

Be positive and excited while talking with your child about his or her first experience with the dentist.  Let them know it will be fun and rewarding.  Please try not to explain too much, as we like to tell them and show them what we are doing while they are in the office.

Forms

Save time on your visit and complete your forms online. Click here to visit our forms page.

The first visit

Our goal is to be a “dental home” for your child.  We encourage parents to stay with your child during the initial examination. Dr. Luu will review medical and dental history, examine your child’s teeth and gums, bite, and head and neck area.  We will discuss your child’s needs, answer all questions and concerns, and give parents advice on home care and prevention of dental disease.  We invite you and your child to explore our office and get to know our team.

Follow-up visits

During future appointments, including treatment and future re-care visits, we invite older children (three years of age and up) to separate from parents.  This will allow our staff to guide your child through the dental experience. Children generally behave better when they are allowed to be independent with direction from our staff. We strive to build a trusting relationship with your child and instill confidence in them while reducing anxiety in any way we can.

We understand that sometimes it is better for the parent to accompany the child, in which case we will ask you to stay. Also, if staying with your child is important to you, please let us know. Our goal is to make this appointment a success.