Wondering what to expect during your first visit to Dentistry For Kids?
You can make the first visit to the dentist enjoyable and positive. If your child is old enough, tell him/her about the upcoming visit letting your child know that the dentist and staff will explain all procedures and answer any questions.
It is best if you refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear, such as “needle”, “shot”, “pull”, “drill” or “hurt.” (DFK Staff make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.)
Our purpose is to gain your child’s confidence and overcome apprehension.
We invite you to stay with your child during the initial examination. During future appointments, we suggest you allow your child to accompany our staff through the dental experience.
We can usually establish a closer rapport with your child when you are not present. For the safety and privacy of all patients, other children who are not being treated should remain in the reception room with a supervising adult.
Dental Radiographs (X-rays)
X-Rays are recommended once a year for children.
Radiographs or X-Rays are important and a necessary part of your child’s dental exam.
They allow dentists to diagnose and treat health conditions that can’t be detected during a clinical examination, detecting much more than cavities.
For example, X-rays may be needed to evaluate erupting teeth, assess the surrounding bone and jaws and help plan orthodontic treatment. If problems are found and treated early, dental care is more comfortable for your child and more affordable for you.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends X-rays and exams every 6 months for children with a high risk of tooth decay.
On average, most pediatric dentists request X-rays once a year.
DFK dentists are careful to minimize the exposure of their patients to radiation. With contemporary safeguards, the amount of radiation received in a dental X-ray examination is extremely small. The risk is negligible. High-speed film and proper shielding assure that your child receives a minimal amount of radiation exposure.