Your child's first visit

When to start

The American Dental Association recommends a child's first dental visit within six months of the first tooth coming in, and no later than the first birthday.

After that, most children come in about every six months. Dr. Di Lisio will recommend a schedule for your child.

What happens at the visit

1. A friendly hello

   We take things slowly, introduce your child to the chair and the tools, and keep the visit short.

2. A gentle look

   Dr. Di Lisio checks your child's teeth, gums, and bite, and how their teeth are coming in.

3. Tips for home

   We'll show you how to brush your child's teeth, and answer your questions about thumb-sucking, pacifiers, teething, and snacks.

How to help your child get ready

• Keep it positive. Talk about the visit as a fun check on their teeth, and avoid words like "hurt" or "shot."
• Read a picture book about going to the dentist, or play pretend dentist with a stuffed animal.
• Schedule at a time of day when your child is usually rested.
• Bring your completed new patient form, and your insurance card if you have dental insurance.