New Patients
Your First Visit
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by the time of their first birthday or when their first tooth erupts.
At Kids Grins we strive to make the first visit one that is enjoyable and stress-free for the entire family! The environment we have created is fun and non-threatening.
Most of our treatment utilizes behavioral techniques that promote positive outcomes. One of my favorites is “Tell-Show-Do.” This technique prepares your child for dental exams and treatment by telling and showing your child what we are going to do before we do it.
As a parent, your positive and calm attitude about your child’s dental appointment will be absorbed and copied by your child, and the visit will be much more productive for all!
For Children Under 3
The exam usually takes place with your child sitting on your lap. A special pillow is placed on your lap so that your child is comfortable and looking at you the entire time. He or she will sit in a way that allows for me to complete a thorough examination, yet allows for you to see everything.
At this important visit we will complete a thorough medical and dental history,and then examine your child’s dental growth and development and look for any potential problems with the gums, jaw and oral tissues. We will clean the teeth and apply a fluoride varnish. We will also discuss our findings with you and answer any questions you may have. We look forward to partnering with you.
For Children Over 3
Most children at this age will “climb” into the chair on their own. However, all children are different and according to behavior may need to be examined using the lap exam technique applied to children under 3. We will determine what is best for your child on the day of examination.
For children over three we recommend a complete oral evaluation, which consists of a cleaning with fluoride treatment, and if necessary, digital radiographs (X-rays).
After a thorough study of our findings, we will prepare and discuss a treatment plan for your child’s dental needs. This will provide guidance on dental and jaw development, fluoride status, non-nutritive oral habits, injury prevention, oral hygiene and the nutritional effects on the oral tissues.
Typically no restorative treatment – fillings, crowns, sealants, extractions – are performed at this visit, unless Dr.Stollman feels that urgent treatment is warranted. We will make subsequent “restorative appointments” that allow for the appropriate amount of time for each specific procedure that best suits your child’s needs.
We want your children to become comfortable with our Team and our beautiful office, and know that we are well trained in working with them to alleviate any concerns. In fact, we hope that your child will look forward to coming to our office, after experiencing the first few positive visits!!
Finances and your child’s dental treatment
If you have insurance benefits:
We are a preferred provider for many major insurance companies. If your insurance covers treatment, you will receive the benefit of reduced personal costs. We will calculate your portion to be paid at the time of service. Insurance policies do vary, so we will review your insurance to determine the appropriate course of action.
Many insurance companies offer Out of Network (“OON”) coverage, so even if we do not participate with your insurance company, we will explore the financial benefits available to you in planning your child’s treatment.
To help us with your insurance filing, please complete the insurance questions on our patient forms. Please remember that insurance is a benefit for you or your child. If, during the course of treatment, your benefits change, the financially responsible party is accountable for any charges.
If you do not have insurance benefits:
We offer an in-house Membership Plan, which offers your child coverage for routine visits and cleanings, plus a courtesy on most treatment- all at a discounted fee!
We accept cash, check, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, and American Express for payment.
Tips and Resources for Parents
Some tips for parents before the first visit include modelling for your child. Let them observe that brushing and flossing your teeth is a part of your daily routine. Use positive words to express your own dental visits, as well as to describe your child’s upcoming visit. There are numerous online resources and books to introduce your child to dentistry. A few of our favorites are:
Daniel Tiger goes to the Dentist
https://youtu.be/zvhF2h915SM
Curious George goes to the Dentist
https://www.amazon.com/Curious-George-Visits-Dentist-Rey/dp/0544146875/ref=sr_1_8?dchild=1&keywords=dentist+books&qid=1613680010&sr=8-8
The Tooth Book
https://www.amazon.com/Tooth-Book-Guide-Healthy-Teeth/dp/0823422062/ref=sr_1_7?dchild=1&keywords=dentist+books&qid=1613680010&sr=8-7
Peppa Pig – Dentist Trip
https://www.amazon.com/Dentist-Trip-Peppa-Pig-Scholastic/dp/0545891469/ref=sr_1_4?dchild=1&keywords=dentist+books&qid=1613680010&sr=8-4
Often, the less fuss that is made prior to the dental visits, the better. The team at Kids Grins knows how to put your child at ease, answer any questions that you or your child may have, and evaluate dental health from an early age.