First Visit Expectations
Your Child is Our Priority
We understand that first visits to the dentist can be intimidating for both patient and parent. We will do everything we can to make your child’s first visit seamless but we would also appreciate your help as the parent by helping to create a positive image of the dentist. Here is what to expect on your child’s first visit. (view kid-friendly video here)
first visit
- Parents will complete new patient paperwork (Medical/oral health history, insurance information, etc).
- A dental cleaning to remove debris and build-up that occurs on your child’s teeth.
- Radiographs or X-rays if prescribed by the doctor.
- A dental exam assessing the health and development of your child’s teeth, gums, and jaws.
- Fluoride varnish application to help keep your child’s teeth strong and healthy.
- A review of your child’s oral health and any treatment needs with the doctor.
- Great prizes to keep your child smiling.
- If this is your infant’s or toddlers first exam, it is completely normal for them to feel uneasy or cry as they are getting used to a new experience. Soon, the tears should subside when they earn one of our cool stickers or prizes.
- Before leaving our pediatric dental office in Elgin, it’s important to schedule any return visits for treatment and check-ups. Proactively scheduling your child’s dental appointment will give you the greatest flexibility for you and your child’s busy schedules.
Parent Guidelines for Appointments
- All children respond differently to dental treatment, and there are many factors at play that may dictate your child’s behavior during treatment.
- By Illustration, a child’s first dental treatment is like an audition. Many times, we won’t know how your child will respond to dental treatment until we try.
- Because children are still maturing, we understand that they are often unpredictable and that sometimes, no amount of preparation can can alter a child’s mindset when they’ve decided they don’t want to be at the dental office.
- In these instances, the best thing we can do at Fox Pediatric Dentistry is to create an optimal environment to steer your child’s appointment in a positive direction.
Two parents are allowed for consultation visits, but only one parent is allowed for treatment visits. All other adults and children should wait in the waiting room to minimize distractions. (The parent with whom the child will behave the best should accompany the child.)
Do not over-prepare your child. Avoid using negative words and imagery that may work up your child even before the appointment has started (refer to Practice Terminology)
Please understand that some children do better for treatment when their parents are not in the room. Some children may act out in an uncomfortable setting in front of their parents to control the situation.
Lastly, a successful outcome for all parties includes communication and trust. Please ask questions if there is something you need help understanding. Trust between our team and your family is essential for a successful visit for your child.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding setting expectations for your child, please get in touch with the Fox Pediatric Dentistry team at (224) 629-4125 or send us a brief message online.
