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At what age should my child first visit the
dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric
Dentistry and the American Dental
Association recommend that a visit to the
dentist should be scheduled by the child's
first birthday. At this young age problems
can be detected, treated early, or avoided
completely. More importantly, it can help
establish a positive relationship between
your child and the dentist.
What will happen
during my child's first visit?
Dr. Rozas
will examine your child's teeth and gums,
checking for decay and other problems or
abnormalities in the mouth. Your child's
bite, proper alignment of jaws, and spacing
for permanent teeth will also be evaluated.
X-rays may be taken to evaluate for hidden
decay, position and location of the
developing pemanent teeth. We will also
discuss potential
problems such as nursing
decay, pacifier and thumb-sucking habits.
Dr. Rozas and her staff will advise you on a
program of preventive health care including
brushing, flossing, proper nutrition, and
the use of fluoride.
What do I tell my child about seeing the
dentist?
Tell them that the dentist is a friendly
doctor who will help them take care of their
teeth. Talk about the visit in a positive
matter of fact way, as you would any
important new experience. Don't let the
child know you feel any anxiety about going
to the dentist and don't use a dental visit
as a punishment or threat. A visit to the
dentist should be a delightful adventure for
a young child.
 Do I stay with my child during the visit?
We ask that you allow your child to
accompany our staff through the dental
experience. We are all highly experienced
in helping children overcome anxiety.
Separation anxiety is not uncommon in
children, so please try not to be concerned
if your child exhibits some negative
behavior. This is normal and will soon
diminish. Studies and experience have shown
that most children over the age of 3 react
more positively when permitted to experience
the dental visit on their own and in an
environment designed for children.
Children's behavior in
the dental office:
Pleasant visits to the
dental office help a child establish trust and confidence that will last a lifetime.
Pediatric dentists and their staff have been
specially trained to help young,
apprehensive children feel good about seeing
the dentist and taking
care of their teeth.
Friendly, compassionate professionals and
bright, cheerful
 office surroundings are all
there to help your child feel comfortable
and at ease with visiting the dentist.
We
recommend scheduling younger children in the
morning, when they are more rested and
cooperative.
How often should
regular visits be scheduled?
Ordinarily, periodic
recall appointments, which include an
examination, preventive dental education,
cleaning and fluoride treatments will be
recommended twice a year. The frequency of
dental visits will partly depend on your
child's eating habits; how clean his or her
teeth are kept; and if he/she has a history
of dental decay.
For your convenience
prior to visiting our office, please view
and print the patient forms, complete the
information and bring them with you to your
first visit.
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