The best time for the first dental visit for your child is around 2 years of age.  Preventing decay is easier and less costly than restoring decayed teeth;  early preventive care is highly effective.  Dental visits may be frightening for some children.  However, if all of us are patient, understanding, and firm we can help your child avoid or overcome his/her fears.

A few days prior to your appointment, talk with your child about the visit as you would talk to him or her about going to school.  Avoid phrases like "it won't hurt", "shot", or "needle".  Suggest to your child to be a good helper.  If your child cries, do not be disappointed.  It is a common response to a new situation.  We will offer lots of praise and encouragement.

To prepare for your visit, we will read your child's health history form.  When you arrive at our office, you will be greeted by our receptionist.  You may watch a video with your child to familiarize you with many facets of our practice.  A hygienist will meet you in the waiting room, then guide your child through his visit.  It should last about an hour.  She will familiarize your child with our equipment and show him/her how it works.  She may take "pictures" of his/her teeth by asking him/her to bite on "film paper".  In our open bay area, your child will join other children receiving care and meet the dentist.  While your child is lying down in our reclining chair, Dr. Carroll will "count" their teeth using a mirror and light to see them.  If no restorative treatment is necessary, our hygienist will clean your child's teeth.  Fluoride may be applied.  Except for in an emergency,  other treatment will not begin until the second appointment.  You and your child will learn  how preventive procedures and good oral health will improve your smiles.

Scheduling appointments for future visits can be determined based on the first visit.  We have found that children under school age do best in the mornings.  Afternoons work well for school age patients.  Please understand that missing some school for dental care is inevitable as most of our patients are school age.  We will do our best to arrange the most convenient appointments for you.

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