A child’s first dental appointment is a big milestone — and with the right preparation, it can be a positive experience that sets the stage for a lifetime of healthy smiles. We welcome patients ages 3 and older and take special care to make each visit as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Why the First Visit Matters
The first dental visit is about more than checking teeth; it’s about building trust, reducing anxiety and teaching kids healthy habits. When children have a good first experience, they’ll feel more comfortable and confident at future visits.
What to Expect at the First Appointment
We like to have a first visit with patients starting at age 3 to introduce them to our office and establish a positive relationship. At their first visit, we take them back to the treatment area by themselves to show them our instruments and equipment. We let them touch the various tools and ask questions to help familiarize them with our dental clinic. We explain what everything is for and describe what happens during a visit in kid-friendly terms. We’ll ask them to open their mouth and count their teeth with them.
If a child is engaged and cooperative throughout the process, we’ll attempt to perform their first checkup with an exam, x-rays, gentle cleaning and flossing.
If a child is not comfortable with any of these steps, we don’t press them. We call this a “happy visit” and consider it one step on the road to getting comfortable at the dentist’s office. We offer one free happy visit per patient.
Six Tips for a Smooth First Visit
We provide gentle care for all our patients. But you can help children feel at ease even before they walk in the door.
1. Talk About the Dentist Positively
Children take cues from your emotions. If you’re calm and upbeat, they’re more likely to be too. Explain their upcoming visit in simple, positive terms, such as, “The dentist will count your teeth and make sure your smile is healthy.”
Avoid using words like “pain” or “shot” when describing the appointment.
2. Read Books or Watch Videos Together
Many children’s books and short videos explain dental visits in fun, engaging and reassuring ways. Reading or watching together gives your child a chance to ask questions and imagine what the visit will be like.
Books include:
- The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan and Jan Berenstain
- Curious George Visits the Dentist by Margret and H.A. Rey
- Just Going to the Dentist by Mercer Mayer (Little Critter series)
- Daniel Goes to the Dentist by Alexandra Cassel Schwartz (Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood)
- Brush, Brush, Brush! by Alicia Padron
You can find videos of some of these titles being read aloud online.
Shows and videos include:
- Daniel Tiger Visits the Dentist (PBS Kids), plus a companion interactive game
- Peppa Pig at the Dentist (Peppa Pig channel on YouTube)
- A Trip to the Dentist (Sesame Street channel on YouTube)
- Blippi Visits the Dentist (Blippi channel on YouTube)
- Colgate Bright Smiles, Bright Futures (Colgate channel playlist on YouTube)
3. Practice at Home
Play dentist by having your child open wide while you count their teeth with a toothbrush. This helps them get used to sitting still, opening their mouth and feeling comfortable with someone they trust looking inside.
4. Schedule Wisely
Plan the appointment at a time when your child is usually alert and well-rested — often in the morning. A tired or hungry child is more likely to feel fussy or anxious.
5. Bring Comfort Items
If your child has a favorite stuffed animal or blanket, have them bring it along. Familiar items can help kids feel safe in new environments.
6. Share Key Information with Us
If you think your child’s personality, medical history or any previous dental or medical experiences might impact their time with us, please let us know. This can help us tailor the visit to your child’s needs.
Set the Stage for a Lifetime of Healthy Smiles
Your child’s first dental visit is more than just an appointment — it’s the beginning of a relationship with our dental team. With preparation and positivity, you can help make it a happy, stress-free milestone.
Ready to schedule your child’s first visit? Call us at 785-539-5949, and we’ll get them started on the path to a healthy, bright smile.