Dr. Linda A. Steele - Your First Pediatric Dentist Visit

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Your First Visit

In accordance with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry and the American Academy of Pediatrics, parents should schedule their child’s first office visit within six months of eruption of his/her first tooth or before his or her first birthday. Early visits to the dentist increase your child’s comfort level and will allow Dr. Linda to evaluate your child and advise you on any current or potential issues.

As you prepare your child for his or her first dental visit, keep a positive and excited attitude. Speak in general terms and avoid relaying negative stories about past dental experiences. Simply explain that it will be a fun visit where our staff will clean their teeth and leave the rest of the details to us! Please note that we reserve our morning appointments for children under the age of seven. We find that younger children are fresher and more cooperative in the morning. If needed, we will provide an excused absence form for your child's school.

Our primary goal is to make your child's first visit to the dentist a positive experience so that they will look forward to returning in the future. We believe that it is extremely important to foster the development of a person who will seek dental care for a lifetime. Depending on your child’s age and level of cooperation, you make expect the following at your first visit to our office:

• Tour the facility
• Meet the doctor and staff
• A comprehensive examination
• Dental cleaning
• Digital x-rays, if necessary
• Fluoridation treatment
• Diet, oral hygiene and mouth trauma education
• Treatment plan for any issues that need addressing

Parents are always welcome to accompany their child throughout the examination. However, in some situations, a child may be better behaved when seen on their own. We respectfully ask that you follow the lead of Dr. Linda and her staff so that your child may receive the care they need.

We are thrilled to have you join our practice and are honored that you have entrusted us with your child’s care. We look forward to working with you in caring for your child’s happy and healthy smile!