"When should I schedule my child's first dental visit?"

According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should visit the dentist by his/her first birthday. You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. Your child should be informed of the visit and told that the dentist and his staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions. The less to-do concerning the visit, the better.

It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as needle, pull, drill, or hurt. Our office makes a practice of using words that convey the same message but are pleasant and not frightening to the child.

The first visit is usually very short and involves riding in the chair and getting acquainted with the surroundings.