Your child's first visit to our office is designed to be a positive, anxiety-free experience. Our goal is to provide your child hte highest quality dental care in a manner that allows them to grow up unafraid of the dentist. Our approach is customized according to your child's specific needs...both physcially and psychologically. Depending on your child's age and needs, we will progress as slowly or as quickly as indicated by thier initial appointment.
We have a "No Restraint" policy...under no circumstances are harsh words or physical restraint utilized. Parents or staff may hold the child's hands for comfort if need be. Along with our "No Restraint" policy, we also have an "Open Door" policy. Parents are allowed in appropriate patient care areas. Occasionally, we may ask parents to allow us to have some personal time with their child ("Mom needs to make a phone call Johnny") in order to focus the child's attention on the task at hand.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Be natural and easy-going...Your child will look to you for cues as what to expect and how to act at their first dental visit. If you appear calm and confident about the upcoming dental visit...so will your child.
- Talk about the visit...Very young children are upset by the fear of the unknown, so certainly be honest and let them know that they are going to visit the dentist; however, too much information can magnify these fears. So try not to overdo. Certainly explain to your child that the dentist will be looking at his or her teeth to see that the teeth are healthy and straight. If your child asks for more information let them know that it will all be explained to them at the time of their appointment.
- A carrot is better than a stick...Often children need a little extra time to "get acquainted: with their new "friends" and surroundings. So please be patient in the beginning...a soft touch in the beginning can go a long way in the end!
Once you're here...If you choose to accompany your child to the back office area, here are some things that YOU can do to help:
Appear Calm and Relaxed - Be a role model.
Be a Silent Partner - Allow the doctor/staff to build a relationship.
Read a Magazine - Pretend not to appear concerned.
Limit Questions During Treatment - We will happily address these before or after the appointment.
Whether your child is coming for their first dental visit or has had a "not so positive" previous experience...you can be assured that we will do everything in our power to provide a lifetime of gentle. quality dental care for your child. Please feel free to call if you have any questions, suggestions, or comments.
We look forward to meeting with you and your child soon!