New Patients
Your Child's First Visit
There is a lot of joy in a first, and your child's first dental visit is one we are honored to be part of.
One of the questions we hear most is simply, “When should we start?” We follow the guidance of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: bring your little one in when that first tooth peeks through, or by their first birthday, whichever comes first.
This visit is all about connection. We take time to get to know your child, let them get comfortable in our space, and gently check in on how their smile is growing. You will leave with practical tips for caring for those brand-new teeth at home, and, we hope, a child who thinks the dentist is a pretty great place to be.
Knee-to-Knee Exams
For our youngest patients, we often use a gentle technique called a knee-to-knee exam. You and Dr. Mindi sit facing each other with your knees touching, creating a soft, secure space in the middle. Your child sits on your lap facing you, then leans back so their head rests comfortably in Dr. Mindi's lap while their legs stay wrapped around your waist.
This simple setup keeps your child close to you the entire time. They can see your face, hold your hands, and feel your reassurance while Dr. Mindi takes a quick, comfortable look at their teeth and gums. It is one of the kindest, least intimidating ways to examine babies and toddlers, and it gives you a front-row seat to learn how to care for your child's smile at home.
What To Expect
For a first visit, we like to take a gentle, comprehensive look at the whole picture. That means examining your child's teeth and the gums that support them, reviewing their at-home oral hygiene, and giving those little teeth a cleaning. We will check how their bite is developing and only take X-rays if they are truly needed. It is also the perfect moment to ask us anything on your mind, because no question is too small.
Preparing For Your Child's First Visit
A positive dental experience starts at home. A little warm-up conversation goes a long way: let your child know we are a friendly team who will explain everything as we go and happily answer their questions.
One small tip that makes a big difference: try to avoid words like “needle,” “shot,” or “drill.” We use kid-friendly language for everything we do, and keeping things light at home helps your child walk in curious and calm rather than worried.
Watch Our Story
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Watch Our Story
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Watch Our Story
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Ready for a first visit they'll love?
Bring your little one in when that first tooth peeks through, or by their first birthday. Let's get them on the schedule.
