Your Child's First Visit
Starting early sets your child up for a lifetime of healthy smiles. Here is exactly what to expect, so both you and your little one can walk in relaxed.
By the first birthday, or within 6 months of the first tooth
That is when the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend a child’s first dental visit. We believe early education and prevention can stop dental caries before they start.
What we cover during the first visit
A friendly conversation, a gentle exam, and answers to all your questions.
Health history of your child
We review your child’s medical and dental history so care is tailored safely to them.
Eruption and teething
What to expect as baby and permanent teeth come in, and how to keep your child comfortable.
Hygiene and home care
Practical brushing and flossing routines that work for your child’s age and abilities.
Proper use of fluoride
Guidance on the right amount of fluoride to protect growing teeth.
Growth and development
How your child’s jaw, bite and smile are developing, and what that means for their oral health.
Diet and nutrition
Which foods help teeth grow healthy and which habits to watch out for.
Oral habits
Thumb sucking, pacifiers and other habits, and how they can affect teeth over time.
Teeth, oral cavity and head/neck exam
A gentle, complete evaluation of your child’s teeth, mouth, head and neck.
Save time with online forms
Complete your new patient paperwork from home so your first appointment is all about your child, not a clipboard. You can also review our office policies ahead of time.
Bring with you
Your completed forms, your child’s health history, and any questions you have. We will handle the rest.
First visit FAQs
When should my child first see a dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry both recommend that children see a dentist by their first birthday, or within 6 months after their first tooth comes in.
What happens at the first visit?
The first visit is gentle and informative. We review your child’s health history and discuss eruption and teething, hygiene and home care, proper use of fluoride, growth and development, diet and nutrition, and oral habits. Your child also receives an evaluation of their teeth and oral cavity along with a head and neck exam.
Why see a pediatric dentist instead of a general dentist?
Pediatric dentists complete 2 to 3 years of additional training after dental school, focused on the unique needs of infants, children and adolescents. That includes growth and development, child psychology, behavior management and sedation techniques.
Do you see children with special needs?
Yes. Dr. Wong has a special interest in caring for patients with Down syndrome, Autism, ADHD and Cerebral Palsy, and our office is set up to give these children the extra attention and patience they may need.
How do I prepare paperwork before we arrive?
You can complete our patient forms online before your visit, and review our office policies, using the links on this page. If anything is unclear, call us at (925) 828-9000 and we will walk you through it.
Let's make the first visit a great one
Starting your child early will help ensure a lifetime of healthy smiles. Call us and we will find a time that works for your family.