Your Child's First Visit

Dear Parent,

Thank you for calling for an appointment for your child. I realize that you may have many questions to ask. In this letter, we shall try to answer those questions that most parents ask, and of course we will be happy to answer your individual questions at any time.

Your aim, as a parent, and ours as a pediatric dental office, are the same, to keep your child's teeth in good condition. Also in addition, our goal is to make your child a "good dental patient." One that will not grow up to fear and avoid dental treatment. These goals can be achieved with your child, as they have been with many of our other patients.

• How should I prepare my child for his/her first visit?
• What Happens during the first visit?
• What if my child is in pain?
• What if my child is afraid?

How should I prepare my child for his/her first visit?

The most important thing is to not over prepare your child. Casually mention a few days ahead that, "We are going to visit the dentist the day after tomorrow." If your child has any questions, answer them briefly and enthusiastically. Be positive in your approach.

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What happens during the first procedure?

Each child is an individual with his/her own rate of development, growth, and onset of maturity. We try to gear our treatment procedures to what we believe is your child’s level of understanding. For example, some three year olds are more mature than others, and their treatment plans and their management as dental patients will differ.

At the first visit your child is introduced to our dental office. His/her teeth and supporting structures will be thoroughly examined. Everything is explained and shown, by a method known as "Tell, Show, and Do." You and your child will be able watch along on the TV, while we all examine his/her oral cavity. After the exam is complete, your child’s teeth will be thoroughly cleansed and then treated with fluoride. Upon completion of the visit, your child will be presented with a prize. The first visit should be as pleasant and as free from stress as possible.

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What if my child is in pain?

If you have made an emergency appointment because your child is in pain, the emergency will of course be taken care of immediately. Every effort will be made that your child’s discomfort is relieved at that visit, and the regular routines will be left for another visit.

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What if my child is afraid?

Even if your child is not in pain, he/she may be fearful and apprehensive about a new experience. Your child may cry, but you need not be upset about this. Crying is a child’s normal reaction to fear. We encourage moms &/or dads to be present in the treatment room as a reassurance to the child. When he/she knows about the office and no longer "fears the unknown," he/she will be a willing cooperative patient.

If your child has had any earlier bad experiences with dentistry, it may take more than one visit to make him/her feel ready to cooperate and to accept dental treatment. We will make every effort to gain your child’s confidence.

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Dr. Bialik is a Board Eligible and Board Qualified Pediatric Dentist. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to write: Scott A. Bialik, D.D.S., 246 Federal Road, Suite D - 13, Brookfield, CT 06804 or dial (203) 791-2771.

Flexible Payment Plans Available