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The American Academy of
Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child's first visit to the
dentist occur by 12 months of age or when the first baby tooth comes
in. This visit will enable Dr. Banaji to evaluate your child and
introduce good oral hygiene routines. Diet, fluoride use,
finger/pacifier habits and tooth eruption will be discussed to
ensure optimal dental health. Most importantly, we wish to assist
you in finding a “dental home” for your child. Once this is
accomplished, we are just a phone call away, any time you need us!
Before The First Visit
Please discuss with your child the positive aspects
of going to the dentist, since you play a large part in preparing
your child for the first visit to our office. Try to act relaxed and
at ease since any anxiety on your part may be sensed by your child.
Another suggestion is to tell your child that going to the dentist
is a sign of growing up.
Please do not use the words "the dentist will not hurt" or “be
brave” as this may never have entered your child’s mind. Instead,
you may wish to assure your child that Dr. Banaji and his team will
be gentle and friendly. Also, please avoid using the words "needle,
shot, pull", or any other words suggesting unpleasantness. We
explain our procedures using child friendly terms before we perform
them.
Young children often cry when faced with unfamiliar situations.
Working together, we can overcome any apprehension your child may
have. Expect your child to do well and enjoy the visit to our
office!
IMPORTANT: If you want us to be aware of
medical conditions, or special precautions to take with your child;
example: heart murmur, heart surgery, downs syndrome, autism, please
inform us at the initial phone call to our office. Antibiotics
before dental treatment: If your child has a heart condition or
other medical condition that requires antibiotics prior to dental
treatment, please have your child’s physician give you the necessary
prescription and follow the directions carefully. If the prescribed
medicine is not taken, we will be unable to complete the dental
treatment.
Staying With Your Child During the Visit
Parents are invited to observe during the first visit
and checkup appointments. During restorative treatment of cavities,
parents may observe through the clear glass door of the treatment
room. This arrangement allows the doctor and team to communicate
with your child directly without distractions or safety concerns.
Over time, we hope you will allow your child to accompany our team
through the dental experience to better establish trust and
independence.
Separation anxiety is common in preschool children and will diminish
with follow up visits. Most children over the age of 3 years have a
positive experience when permitted to interact with the dental team
on their own and in an environment designed for children. As your
child matures, it is part of our goal to encourage independence and
promote self-esteem.
Finally, if you expect your child to do well and enjoy their visit
to our office, chances are they will do just that!
Crying
While your child may never think to cry, please try
not to be upset if your child does cry while in our office. This is
a normal reaction to the unknown, and we are trained to help fearful
children through their dental experience. In infants, crying
actually helps us see everything we need to see!
If your child cries during the procedure, the face may appear
flushed and small red dots may appear around the eyes and face.
Please note that this is common as a result of crying and is not due
to a reaction or allergy to any materials used in our office.
The First Visit
Every visit is unique, but here is what you can
expect with your child’s first visit which may last about an hour.
Your child will be greeted in the reception room by a team member
who will introduce you to our dental office. Dental equipment and
techniques will be explained to your child prior to performing a
procedure. Your child’s teeth are professionally cleaned to remove
plaque, stains and tartar.
 Fluoride, a mineral that is effective in preventing cavities is
applied to the teeth. Dental x- rays are taken as necessary, by
certified personnel using appropriate safety techniques. Teeth
brushing, flossing and diet are reviewed with the child and parent.
Dr. Banaji will review your child’s medical history and perform a
head and neck examination and evaluate the teeth, gums, bite and
dental development. If your child requires further dental treatment,
a Treatment Plan along with the estimated insurance coverage and
office fees is presented to you at this visit. Please review this
information carefully and ask questions prior to approving the
Treatment Plan. Generally, treatment such as fillings and sealants
will not start until the second appointment.
You are welcome to accompany your child into the treatment area
during the first visit. This will give you the opportunity to see
our team in action and allow Dr. Banaji to discuss the dental
findings and treatment directly with you.
Both parents are encouraged to accompany the child for the first
visit, particularly as we discuss the treatment plan and preventive
procedures for good dental health. If your child has seen another
dentist within the past six months, please request the dental
records and x-rays and bring them with you.
For your convenience, please click
here to complete the necessary forms
prior to your child's first visit.
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