first visit
Please allow time to fill out paperwork on your first visit. You will need to bring your child’s Alberta Health Care Card and any insurance information. If your child has any medical concerns, please make us aware before their scheduled appointment.
The purpose of the first visit is to establish a dental home while building a trusting relationship with your child. Our office, in conjunction with the American and Canadian Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, recommends that the first dental visit take place by one year of age. This allows us the opportunity to provide guidance on optimal oral care while paying special attention to prevention of cavities and other dental concerns.
A first dental visit can be a challenging new experience for a young child. Most parents are nervous about how their child is going to behave, but our goal is to ensure the first visit is positive and enjoyable for both you and your child. Parents should not be surprised or embarrassed if their child initially does not cooperate in the dental office. Remember, children often fear the unknown and for a young child, this may result in age-appropriate tears. Children usually take great pride in overcoming their fears and most of our patients who may have cried initially leave with a big smile on their face.
How to prepare your child for their first visit:
Tell your child the dentist is going to count their teeth and make sure their teeth are healthy or clean (or have no “sugar bugs”).
Show them photos or read child-friendly books about going to the dentist.
- Avoid using words that cause fear such as “needle” “shot” “pinch” or “drill”. At Small to Tall, we use words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to children.
- Avoid comments like “don’t worry, the dentist won’t hurt you”. Children are extremely intuitive and hearing that may actually result in a new fear that didn't initially exist.
- Try not to over explain. Children often ask what is going to happen at the dental appointment. We are not asking you to mislead your child, but do keep your explanation simple as you don’t know what will happen until you are there.
We look forward to meeting you and your child for your appointment!
Click here for more information on the importance of a first dental visit.