First Visit

When should I make my child’s first appointment?

Your child’s 1st visit to the dentist should take place around their first birthday.

What happens at the first appointment?

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. As your child gets older, X-rays may be taken to check for decay and to assess the health and development of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums. Your child’s teeth may be cleaned and a fluoride applied to help protect from tooth decay. We will show you how to clean and take care of your child’s teeth and make sure your child is getting enough fluoride at home. 

Suggestions on making your child’s first visit to our office enjoyable:

  • Tell your child that Dr. Phelps is nice and gentle, and will count their teeth.
  • Please do not bring up anything to do with pain, hurting, needles, shots, drills, or other words suggesting unpleasantness.   It may scare them and these thoughts may never have crossed their minds.
  • Expect your child to do well and enjoy the first visit to our office and most likely they will!