first visit
pediatric dentistry
At The Tickled Tooth, we follow the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry’s recommendation to bring your child in for their first visit by their first birthday or when the first tooth appears, whichever comes first.
within 6 months
after first tooth arrives
no later than
their first birthday
what to expect
A Partnership
from the Start
Our goal is to take the time to truly get to know you and your child — this is the beginning of a lasting partnership, and we’re here for the journey ahead.
Comprehensive
Care
During your child’s first visit, they’ll receive a comprehensive exam, and we’ll discuss key topics including home oral care, diet, teething, and airway health. Together, we’ll craft a personalized plan, demonstrate proper hygiene techniques, and provide insights on important dental milestones.
At Your
Child’s Pace
We understand that every child is unique, so we go at their pace. Sometimes, a successful visit is simply achieving one small step. Our primary goal is for your family to feel comfortable and confident throughout the process.
Ask Away!
We're Here for You
We welcome all your questions and are happy to provide the guidance you need.
How to prepare
Embrace a Calm, Positive Mindset
Relax and maintain an optimistic attitude — your positive energy will play a key role in helping your child feel at ease. A core part of our approach is using age-appropriate language. Using encouraging, reassuring words at home will help your child feel confident and excited about their visit.
Explore Through Stories
Reading books about going to the dentist can be a wonderful way to introduce the experience. Here are a few of our favorites.
Engage in Pretend Play
Play dentist with your child. Practice counting teeth and checking their smile on their favorite toys or stuffed animals.
Choose the Right Time
For younger children, mornings are often ideal when they are well-rested. Avoid scheduling during nap time or after school, when your child may be tired.
Complete New Patient Forms in Advance
To help save time during your visit, please fill out your new patient forms before you arrive. This will allow us to focus and spend more time with you and your family.
