Your First Visit

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that you visit a pediatric dentist no later than your baby’s first birthday.

At Coastal Kids Dental & Braces we make this first visit a fun, easy experience for you and your child.  The first visit introduces your child to our office and allows us to begin to develop a relationship with them. This visit also gives us an opportunity to educate you on how to prevent cavities and other dental problems in your child. 

Coastal Kids Dental & Braces does not charge for well checks for children under 18 months of age.

Before the first visit, please speak positively about going to the dentist with your child. If you are nervous and worried about the appointment, they will sense this and feel the same way.  Please avoid using words such as “hurt”, “shot”, “needle”, and “pull”.  Try and reassure your child that the trip to the dentist is a positive experience that is a part of growing up.

During the initial appointment, we encourage parents to come back with their child.  This enables the staff and Dr. Isabel to teach the parents brushing/flossing techniques and to discuss any dental issues directly.  If a follow-up appointment for fillings is necessary, we encourage children over 3 years of age to come back on their own.  We find that this builds independence and trust for the child and also enables us to better focus on your child. In some situations, a parent’s presence is helpful, in which case you will be asked to join us in the operatory.  We want to do whatever makes your child’s appointment the most successful.

Also, keep in mind that if your child is scared and crying, this is okay.  We specialize in dealing with these situations and will work on developing a special relationship with your child, even if it takes more than one appointment.