A child's first visit, done right

We recommend a child's first dental visit by their first birthday — or within six months of the first tooth appearing. The point is not the cleaning. The point is to make the dental office a normal, friendly place before any treatment is ever needed.

First visits here are short and gentle. The child sits on a parent's lap, we count their teeth, we let them touch the mirror and the chair. If they are comfortable, we polish; if not, we save it for next time. There is no rush.

Parents can prepare children at home by reading picture books about dentists and avoiding loaded language — words like "shot" or "hurt" do not belong in the dental conversation. We will tell children exactly what is happening, in plain words, when it is happening.

Bring siblings if it helps. Bring snacks for after. The first visit should end with a high-five, not a tear.