We follow the recommendation of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry that a child's first dental visit should occur by 12 months of age. This infant oral health exam will allow Dr. Hargleroad to examine your child for any dental problems and will allow her to monitor your child's growth and development. She will discuss with you many topics including oral hygiene, diet, fluoride, tooth eruption, and oral habits. Starting dental appointments early will help prevent problems in the future and will ensure a positive attitude toward dental care.
Before the First Visit
Please discuss the many positive aspects of dentistry with your child. Your attitude and impression of dental care will be impressed upon your child. If you have any anxiety toward the dentist, your child will sense the tension. Please try to remain calm and at ease. The purpose of the first visit is to establish a positive relationship with you and your child. One way to convey good feelings to your child about dental visits is to remind them that going to the dentist is a sign that they are growing up. You can explain that Dr. Hargleroad will "count", "brush", and "take pictures" of his/her teeth.
Please do not tell your child that the "dentist will not hurt" as this may have never entered his/her mind. Instead, you may wish to assure your child that Dr. Hargleroad and her staff will be fun, gentle and friendly. Explain that the visit will be an exciting experience for yourself and your child. Also, please avoid using words such as "needle", "shot", "pull", "drill" or any other word suggesting unpleasantness. Dr. Hargleroad and her staff have a special way of explaining what will be done in terms best suited for your child.
Please remember that some children cry when faced with new and unfamiliar situations. This is a normal reaction and we will work to overcome any apprehension your child may face. Expect your child to do well and enjoy their visit to our office and chances are he/she will do exactly that!
Your First Dental Visit
We schedule a child's initial examination in two separate appointments. At the first appointment, the child will become familiar with the office, oral hygiene instructions will be given, and dental radiographs (x-rays) will be taken if Dr. Hargleroad feels they are necessary. Dr. Hargleroad will perform a head and neck examination and then evaluate the health of the teeth, gums and your child's bite. At the second appointment, the child's teeth will be cleaned and fluoride applied if appropriate.
After each appointment, Dr. Hargleroad will meet with you and your child in the consultation room to discuss any concerns. If additional services are require, they will be scheduled for a later visit.
Although it may at first seem inconvenient, two initial appointments allows your child to become better acquainted with the staff and Dr. Hargleroad. It also allows ample opportunity for Dr. Hargleroad to meet with you (the parents) and address your questions and concerns.
Parent Participation and Safety
ONE parent is invited back to observe during the initial examination and treatment appointments. If you have other children, please arrange to have another adult with you that will watch the children in the waiting area.
During treatment appointments, we ask that the parent take a passive role and observe only. Dr. Hargleroad and her staff will need your child's full attention in order to communicate effectively and establish trust. As your child matures, we encourage independence and hope that your child will feel comfortable experiencing their dental appointment without the parent present.
Cellular telephones are prohibited in the treatment areas. Conversations carried on by others can be very distracting to our patients. We appreciate your understanding.
