Who this is for
- Parents of a baby whose first tooth is coming in, or who is close to a first birthday.
- Parents of an older child who has not seen a dentist yet.
- A grandparent, nanny or other adult who will bring a child for a parent.
When to come
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises a first visit by the first tooth and no later than the first birthday. You do not need to wait for a problem. If you are unsure, ask the front desk.
What we do at our office
First visits take place in our treatment room at Suite 701. Ask the front desk which care can be part of the same visit.
Who may bring your child
A parent or legal guardian gives written consent before treatment.
If another adult brings your child with your signed authorization, that adult stays in the room. The parents’ guide explains who Florida law allows to consent when a parent cannot be reached (section 743.0645, Florida Statutes).
What to bring
- Your insurance card, if you have one. Ask the front desk about your plan.
- A list of your child’s medicines, health conditions and allergies.
- Any forms our office sends you before the visit.
- Your signed authorization, if another adult is bringing your child.
What happens at the visit
- The adult bringing your child checks in at the front desk; a parent or legal guardian’s written consent is on file before treatment.
- You and your child go into the treatment room together.
- The pediatric dentist names each step, shows the instrument, then does that step.
- The dentist looks at the teeth and gums, pausing when your child needs a moment.
- You talk through brushing, snacks and when to come back.
How the visit is paced
If your child is uneasy, tell the front desk when you call, so the visit can start more slowly. A first visit can end after a look and a conversation.
Risks and limits
- A first visit is a look and a talk; it cannot rule out problems that appear later.
- Some children need more than one visit before they are at ease.
- Coverage depends on your plan; ask the front desk before the visit.
Questions parents ask
My baby has no teeth at 11 months. Should we still come?
Yes. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry advises a visit no later than the first birthday, even when teeth are late.
What if my child cries?
Crying is common at a first visit. The pace slows, and the visit can end after a look and a talk.
Can my child’s grandparent bring them?
Yes, with your signed authorization for that visit. The grandparent stays in the room with your child.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry: aapd.org
- American Dental Association, MouthHealthy: mouthhealthy.org
- Florida Statutes, sections 1014.06 and 743.0645: leg.state.fl.us