Happy Visits – Early Childhood

Dental experts agree that building good oral care habits should begin as early as possible to create a foundation for a lifetime.  Parents often ask us when this should start and what they can do to help build and encourage these habits.

 Here’s what parents can do.
  • First, model good oral care routines yourself. Children learn by watching their parents.
  • Begin regular brushing routines with children once their first baby teeth have come in.
  • Schedule a child’s first dental office visit when they are between 1 and 2 years old.
Happy Visits™
Happy Visits are designed to be a fun and positive experience to specifically lessen the anxiety about the new experience of coming to the dentist.
Around 18 months young patients come in for a free ‘trial’ exam.
  • They experience sitting in the dental chair and going up and down. (Whether alone or on mom or dad’s lap the ride is always fun!)
  • They get to wear sunglasses and see our big flashlight (the bright overhead light).
  • They meet Mr. Tickle (tooth polisher) and Mr. Thirsty (water and suction).
  • Dr. Poz Waiting room, features children's space with toys and games.They practice counting their teeth (Dr Poz always needs help counting teeth properly!).
  • They get used to our staff and doctors wearing gloves and masks. (Some even want to take gloves and masks home to play dentist!)
  • Parents are shown proper teeth cleaning methods and all their questions are answered.
  • The importance of proper diet is also emphasized in kid friendly language.
  • Before they leave, each child is treated with a visit to the treasure chest for a toy and stickers (their favorite part!)
There are online apps available to help make a game of getting young ones to brush teeth for the required two minutes.
By starting early with a consistent brushing schedule and a positive first dental office experience, a strong dental hygiene habit is established setting children up for a lifetime of dental health.