Our goal, along with our staff, is to help all children feel good about visiting the dentist and teach them how to care for their teeth. From our special office designs, to our communication style, our main concern is what is best for your child. 

 During the first visit to our office, you and your child will become familiar with our office and staff. We will make a great effort to ensure that your child feels comfortable in this new environment. Dr. Cathy requests that parents accompany their children into the examination bay during this initial visit. This introduces parents to our treatment environment, allows Dr. Cathy to discuss her dental findings, and provides parents with a general idea of our office's philosophy.

 Depending upon your child's response during this initial visit, Dr. Cathy will provide recommendations for following appointments. If you are asked to accompany your child into the treatment area during subsequent visits, we suggest that you act as a "silent & supportive" observer only. It is very important for us to establish cooperation and trust directly with each patient. In turn, this will help your child establish a long lasting relationship with Dr. Cathy, which should precipitate a positive outlook on dentistry.

Once Dr. Cathy has established her findings, she will review them with the accompanying parent or legal guardian. Dr. Cathy encourages parents to take an active role in deciding which treatment options are best for each individual child and will rely on your input. After these options have been thoroughly explored, you will receive a detailed treatment plan, which includes all treatment recommendations, costs and any insurance information. A Treatment-Financial Coordinator will then review this information and will explain how your specific insurance benefits work.

Lastly, all payment options will be explored, an appointment will be scheduled and any final treatment questions will be answered.

Expect your child to have a pleasant experience. It is best if you can refrain from using words around your child that might cause unnecessary fear and anxiety, such as “needle, pull, drill or hurt.” Pediatric dental offices make a practice of using words that convey the same message, but are pleasant and non-frightening to the child.

During the first visit, the dental examination will generally include the following:

• Evaluation of the erupted teeth for cavities, the gums for infection, and the other mouth tissues for abnormalities.
• Evaluation of status of current restorations (e.g. fillings, crowns, etc.)
• Evaluation of the occlusion (the way the teeth come together).
• Evaluation of growth and development.
• Orthodontic needs assessment.
• Determine the effects of childhood habits (e.g. thumb sucking, pacifiers, bottles, etc.)
• Selected diagnostic x-rays are taken and examined. To assure that every precaution is taken for the safety of your child during x-ray procedures, we use a digital x-ray system, which supplies up to 90% less radiation than conventional x-rays. All children wear a lead apron with thyroid collar during x-rays.
• A review of preventive measures, such as proper tooth brushing, flossing, fluoride, and diet will be completed.
• Completion of a thorough cleaning and application of a topical fluoride treatment, if your child is cooperative.

Please print out and complete the Health History Form and bring it with you. This will save time and make your visit go more smoothly.