Your Child’s First Visit to a Pediatric Dentist in Chicago IL

When should my child first see Dr. Smith?

The first dental visit should be no later than your child’s first birthday or when their first tooth erupts, whichever is first. Although your child will lose their baby teeth, keeping them healthy and cavity-free is crucial. If these teeth are lost due to infection or disease too early, the adult teeth may not come in properly. Even toddlers can develop gum disease, a potentially serious illness with lasting effects on oral health.

 

What will my child’s first visit to the pediatric dentist in Chicago be like?

At your child’s first visit, we gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. We may also take X-rays to check the progress of the permanent teeth and reveal any tooth decay. Your child’s teeth are gently cleaned, and if needed, we may apply topical fluoride for an added layer of protection against tooth decay.

At the end of the first visit, we will review how to clean and care for your child’s teeth at home. Protecting your child’s oral health is a team effort that includes Dr. Smith, you, and your child.

 

Will my child be scared at their first visit to a pediatric dentist?

We certainly hope not! Dr. Smith and her dental care team make every effort to put new pediatric dental patients at ease. Their first appointment begins with introductions and a few ice-breaking questions so we can get to know your child and create a bond based on what is familiar and important to them.

Prior to your child’s first appointment, we ask you and your child to complete a brief questionnaire that helps us get to know them better. Your child’s answers give us some talking points for their first visit to put them at ease and establish a connection.

The questionnaire includes questions such as:

• What type of music do you like to listen to?
• What is your favorite book?
• Who do you hang out with at school?

The questionnaire, if you have not already received it, is available at our front desk.

We always provide a child-friendly, welcoming environment where children feel at ease. We answer every question your child asks. No question is out of bounds—a child’s curiosity is a gift we treat with respect.

At the end of every appointment, your child receives a hygiene bag with tools to use at home to keep their teeth healthy and strong. We also offer a loyalty program, our Hall of Fame for return patients (including gift cards!), and special gifts after any restorative work. We are confident your child will look forward to their appointments with Dr. Smith and learn to care for their teeth for a lifetime of healthy, happy smiles.

 

Pediatric Sedation in Chicago

We recognize that every patient is an individual deserving of respect and compassionate care. Our office employs a certified anesthesiologist offering various levels of pediatric sedation for our patients who may not be able to relax enough to undergo dental treatment. We offer mild to general sedation for children depending on their individual needs. We most often provide pediatric sedation for:

• Infants
• Children undergoing major treatment
• Extremely anxious children
• Neurodivergent children
• Children who have had traumatic dental experiences
• Children with a strong gag reflex
• Children who are medically compromised or have special needs
• Children who have sensory processing disorders

If you believe your child will benefit from pediatric sedation, please let us know, and we will discuss the options with you before your child’s appointment.

 

Complete Chicago Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics

As your child grows with us, we will monitor their teeth’s development and monitor them for any potential orthodontic problems. Early intervention is essential to minimizing time spent in braces and correcting minor issues with your child’s bite before they become major problems.

If you have questions about your child’s first visit or would like to schedule an appointment, please get in touch with our office at Healthy Teeth Beautiful Smile Phone Number 773-445-7777. We look forward to meeting you and your child!