A first visit, by the first birthday
A short visit for a baby or toddler: a look at the teeth and gums, a talk about brushing and feeding, and a chance to see the room.
Dental groups recommend a first visit by a child's first birthday, or when the first tooth shows. Your child can stay in your arms for all of it. It takes about half an hour and most of that is talking.
In your arms or on your lap for the look
Mostly talking
How to brush a first tooth
What happens
About half an hour, and one visit is usually enough to begin.
- 01
Step 1: Hello
Your child meets Dr. Yates and Qing, sees the room and the chair, and keeps whatever they brought from home.
- 02
Step 2: A look
Dr. Yates looks at the teeth and gums with a small mirror while your child sits on your lap, facing her, with their head in her hands.
- 03
Step 3: A talk with you
Brushing, fluoride toothpaste, feeding, pacifiers, thumbs and teething, and what to watch for at home.
- 04
Step 4: What comes next
One visit is usually enough to begin. Checkups follow about every six months, or sooner if Dr. Yates asks.
Comfort, waiting and after-care
Comfort
Nothing is done that you have not heard about first. If your child cries, we pause, and you can take a break in the waiting corner.
Alternatives, and waiting
You can wait until your child is ready; some families come at two or three. Decay can start in baby teeth before a child has had a visit, and it is easier to see early.
Risks and after-care
A look is brief and gentle; the only thing it may stir is a child's feelings about a mirror and a stranger, and Dr. Yates explains the rest. At home, brush twice a day with a smear of fluoride toothpaste the size of a grain of rice until age three.
How it is billed
A first visit is billed for what is done. If you pay yourself, you get a written estimate first.
How fees work
Questions about a first visit, by the first birthday
What if my child cries?
Many do, and we expect it. We slow down, talk to your child and to you, and stop for a break if your child needs one.
Do you take X-rays at a first visit?
Only if Dr. Yates needs one, and she says why before she takes it.
What should we bring?
Something to hold from home, your insurance card if you have one, and a list of any medicines. Health history goes on our patient portal.
Provided by a pediatric dentist
Dr. Linda Yates, DDS, pediatric dentist, licensed in Alaska. Her training and board are on her profile.