Your Child's First Visit
What to expect on your child’s first visit as we try to build a relationship from the first meeting.
We want every child to leave their first visit feeling proud of themselves and excited to come back. Building trust starts on day one, so our team takes the time to introduce the dental office in a way that feels fun, friendly and age appropriate.
For many children, the first appointment is simply about getting comfortable. We’ll “count teeth” and “tickle” or “brush” teeth while gently checking that your child’s smile is developing as expected. Throughout the visit, we explain each step using child-friendly language and our show-tell-do approach so children know what to expect before anything happens.
If we find that your child would benefit from additional treatment, such as a filling, we’ll explain everything clearly to you and create a plan that’s right for your child. Our experienced team carefully chooses words that help children feel safe and confident rather than anxious. Our goal isn’t to hide what’s happening—it’s to introduce dental care in a positive, reassuring way that children can understand.
We also appreciate your partnership in helping us create a great first experience. Whenever possible, we encourage families to use the same child-friendly language we use in our office.
Words We Try to Avoid
* Needle or shot
* Drill
* Drill on tooth
* Pull or yank a tooth
* Decay or cavity
* Examination
* Teeth cleaning
* Explorer
* Rubber dam
* Gas
* Pain or hurt
The Child-Friendly Language We Use
* Sleepy water
* Whistle or water toothbrush
* Wash a tooth
* Wiggle a tooth out
* Sugar bugs
* Count teeth
* Tickle teeth or brush teeth
* Tooth counter
* Raincoat
* Laughing gas or happy air
* Discomfort
Our intention is never to “fool” a child. It’s to build familiarity, trust and confidence by introducing dentistry in a positive way. Together, we can help your child develop healthy habits and positive memories that last well beyond their first visit.
At Pediatric Dental Specialists, we’re proud to provide care with excellence and compassion—because we truly believe Kids Are Dino-Mite!