Office: 4577 Indian Rock Terrace, Washington D.C. 20007

202-499-6928
Book an Appointment
202-499-6928

Kids Dentistry

Say Cheese! Our Kids Dentistry Clinic Makes Dental Care a Breeze!

Schedule an appointment

Call: 202-499-6928

Kids Dentistry

Say Cheese! Our Kids Dentistry Clinic Makes Dental Care a Breeze!

Schedule an appointment

Call: 202-499-6928

Your Child’s First Visit to the Dentist

The first “regular” dental visit should be just after your child’s first birthday. The first dental visit is usually short and involves very little treatment. We may ask you to sit in the dental chair and hold your child during the examination. You may also be asked to wait in the reception area during part of the visit so that a relationship can be built between your child and your dentist.

We will gently examine your child’s teeth and gums. X-rays may be taken (to reveal decay and check on the progress of your child’s permanent teeth under the gums). We may clean your child’s teeth and apply topical fluoride to help protect the teeth against decay. We will make sure your child is receiving adequate fluoride at home. Most important of all, we will review with you how to clean and care for your child’s teeth.

What to expect

We are asked this question many times. We suggest you prepare your child the same way you would before their first haircut or trip to the shoe store. Your child’s reaction to his first visit to the dentist may surprise you.

First time here?

Let’s get you comfortable and ready

Whether you are looking for a smile makeover, general checkup or have an emergency dental issue, get yourself ready for your experience with us.
Schedule an appointment

First time here?

Let’s get you comfortable and ready

Whether you are looking for a smile makeover, general checkup or have an emergency dental issue, get yourself ready for your experience with us.
Schedule an appointment

Here are some “First Visit” Tips:

Take your child for a “preview” of the office.

Read books with them about going to the dentist.

Review with them what the dentist will be doing at the time of the first visit.

Speak positively about your own dental experiences.

During your first visit the dentist will:

Examine your mouth, teeth and gums.

Evaluate adverse habits like thumb sucking.

Check to see if you need fluoride.

Teach you about cleaning your teeth and gums.

Suggest a schedule for regular dental visits.

You ask, we answer

At what age should my child start seeing a dentist?

It is recommended that children have their first dental visit around the age of one or within six months of their first tooth erupting. Early dental visits help establish good oral hygiene habits and allow the dentist to monitor the child’s dental development.

How often should my child visit the dentist
Regular dental check-ups are important for children. It is generally recommended that children visit the dentist every six months for routine examinations, cleanings, and preventive care. However, the frequency may vary depending on the child’s individual oral health needs.
What can I expect during my child's first dental visit?
During the first dental visit, the dentist will perform a gentle examination of your child’s mouth, teeth, and gums. They may also clean the teeth and provide oral hygiene instructions. This visit is a great opportunity to ask any questions you have and discuss oral care routines tailored to your child’s needs.
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
In case of a dental emergency, such as a knocked-out tooth, severe toothache, or injury to the mouth, contact your dentist immediately. They can provide guidance over the phone and schedule an emergency appointment to address the situation promptly.
How can I prepare my child for their dental visit?
To help prepare your child for their dental visit, you can explain that the dentist is a friendly doctor who will check their teeth and help keep them healthy. Reading books about visiting the dentist or playing pretend dentist at home can also help familiarize your child with the experience.
Are dental x-rays safe for children?
Yes, dental x-rays are safe for children. Dentists take necessary precautions, such as using lead aprons and modern digital x-ray equipment, to minimize radiation exposure. Dental x-rays are crucial for diagnosing dental issues that may not be visible to the naked eye and ensuring proper oral health.
How can I encourage my child to practice good oral hygiene?
Making oral hygiene fun can help motivate children to take care of their teeth. You can introduce colorful toothbrushes and toothpaste, sing songs or play a timer during brushing to make it enjoyable. Additionally, praising and rewarding their efforts can reinforce positive habits.
Can you accommodate siblings for simultaneous dental appointments?
Yes, we strive to accommodate families and can schedule simultaneous dental appointments for siblings whenever possible. This helps save time and allows for convenient dental care for the entire family. Please inform our staff when scheduling appointments to make necessary arrangements.

Palisades Dental Health

4577 Indian Rock Terrace,
Washington D.C. 20007

Office Hours

Monday to Saturday 9am to 3pm

202-499-6928
hello@palisadesdentalhealth.com