Upon your child's first visit to our office, there may be some
questions you would like to ask us. We are happy to answer your
individual questions at any time. The following are questions that many
parents ask. We hope the answers here will be helpful to you and to
your child.
How may I best prepare my child if this is his/her first visit and what is the procedure at this visit?
You
can play a large part in preparing your youngster for his/her first
visit to the dentist. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Any anxiety on
your part will probably be sensed by your child. Tell your child that
we will "count" and "take pictures" of his/her teeth. Do not use any
fear provoking words, such as "hurt, drill, pull and needle." Avoid
statements like the "doctor will not hurt you." (If I say to you,
"Don't think of a banana!" what is the first thing you think of? A
banana! It's the same with the word "hurt").
We will
thoroughly explain each of our procedures to your child in terms that
he/she can understand before we do it. Depending upon the child's age,
we will probably ask you to remain in the reception area so-that we can
spend time alone with your child. Afterwards, we will invite you to the
operative area so that we may review your child's history, diagnosis,
or specific problems. Be assured that we will treat your children as
gingerly as we treat our own. However, some children will cry as this
is a normal response to a strange situation.
At
this visit, we will emphasize oral hygiene techniques to be practiced
by both you and your child. We will answer any questions you may have.
We will try to do a cleaning and fluoride treatment on children over
two years of age, but for the first appointment some children are
unwilling to try this. A full examination of the teeth and supporting
structures will be done and occlusion (bite) will be evaluated.
Radiographs (X-Rays) will be taken as necessary (not routinely) to
assure a thorough and comprehensive examination.
Subsequent
appointments for restorations may be scheduled as needed. When
treatment has been completed, your child will be placed on a periodic
exam schedule and you will receive a reminder card when the visit is
due.
What is your philosophy of treatment?
Our emphasis is on "prevention" both in the office and at home. We
recommend regular periodic exams and cleanings as well as positive and
thorough home care. Home care includes limited sweets, brushing two
times a day, flossing at least once a day, and sometimes a topical
application of fluoride. Because the primary teeth form the basis of
the adult dentition, we will do everything possible to preserve the
integrity of your child's dentition while fostering a healthy and
relaxed attitude toward dental care.
When will the
condition of my child's teeth and supporting structures be discussed
with me? Who will explain what work is needed and how much it will cost?
At the conclusion of your child's exam the doctor will met with you to
explain what he's found and what treatment he recommends. .
Your aim as a parent and our aim as dentists are
the same, to keep your child's teeth and mouth in good health and to
make the process of doing so pleasant for everyone.