Your child’s first dental visit is an important milestone, and our goal is to make it a positive, comfortable experience from the moment you arrive. At San Marcos Pediatric Dentistry, we take a gentle, kid-friendly approach that helps children feel safe, builds trust, and sets the foundation for lifelong healthy dental habits.
When Is the Ideal Time for Your Child’s First Dental Appointment?
San Marcos Pediatric Dentistry follows the guidance of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry (ABPD), which recommends scheduling your child’s first dental check-up around their first birthday. Even if not all baby teeth have erupted yet, early visits are important for developing strong oral hygiene habits and supporting early prevention. These appointments also allow Dr. Nikki Shafiei to monitor your child’s oral development from the beginning.
How Can You Prepare Your Child for the First Visit?
Many parents worry about how their child will respond to a dental appointment. We recommend booking the visit in the morning when your child is typically well-rested and more cooperative. If needed, our office can provide excuse notes for school.
It also helps when the dental visit is framed positively at home. Instead of using words that may sound scary, try describing the visit in a fun and reassuring way, such as:
- “The dentist will count how many teeth you have.”
- “The dentist may take special pictures of your teeth using x-ray vision like superheroes.”
- “The dentist will brush your teeth and help keep them strong.”
We also recommend avoiding phrases like “it won’t hurt” or “you won’t get a shot,” since these can unintentionally create fear.
What Should You Bring to the Appointment?
To help your visit go smoothly, please complete and submit (or bring) your child’s medical history form and insurance information. This helps reduce check-in time and allows our team to focus on your child.
If available, please also bring:
- Insurance card(s)
- A list of current medications (or the prescription)
- Prior dental records if transferring from another practice (we can request them with your approval)
What Can You Expect During the First Visit?
When you arrive, our friendly team will help your child get comfortable in the office environment. We use gentle behavior guidance techniques such as Tell-Show-Do and Positive Reinforcement to build trust and reduce anxiety. Dental tools are introduced in a calm, non-threatening way, often with a demonstration on your child’s hand first.
Dr. Shafiei will perform a thorough exam and review findings with you. If your child feels nervous, they are welcome to sit in your lap during the exam. We can also discuss any concerns you may have, including thumb-sucking, nutrition, or cavity risk.
At the end of the appointment, we celebrate your child’s great effort with a gift bag and a chance to pick a prize.
Frequently Asked Questions
A child’s first dental visit can bring up a lot of questions for parents. These answers help you feel prepared and confident before your appointment.
How Long Does a First Dental Visit Usually Take?
Most first visits are brief, typically lasting 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your child’s comfort level.
Can Parents Stay With Their Child During the Appointment?
Yes. Parents are welcome to remain with their child to provide comfort and reassurance during the visit.
What If My Child Is Nervous or Shy?
That’s completely normal. Our team uses calm, age-appropriate techniques to help children feel relaxed and supported.
Will My Child Receive a Cleaning at the First Visit?
Cleanings depend on your child’s age, comfort, and dental development, and are only done when appropriate.
What If My Child Cries or Becomes Uncooperative?
Crying does not mean the visit was unsuccessful. It often reflects unfamiliarity, and comfort improves over time.
