Before your visit
Dear Parent,
Now that you have arranged for your child's first visit to see Dr. Tippets, a Specialist of Pediatric Dentistry, there may be some questions you would like to ask us. We are happy to answer your individual questions at any time. The following are questions that many parents ask. We hope the answers here will be helpful to you and to your child.
1. How may I best prepare my child if this is his/her first visit and what is the procedure at this visit?
You can play a large part in preparing your youngster for his/her first visit to the dentist. Try to act relaxed and at ease. Any anxiety on your part will probably be sensed by your child. Tell your child that we will "count" and "take pictures" of his/her teeth. Do not use any fear provoking works such as "hurt, drill, pull, and needle." Avoid statements like "the doctor will not hurt you." (If I say to you, "Don't think of a banana!" what is the first thing you think of? A banana! It's the same with the word "hurt.") We will thoroughly explain each of our procedures to your child in terms that he/she can understand before we do it.
We will fully discuss with you your child's medical history, diagnosis, treatment plan, or specific problems. Be assured that we will treat your children as gingerly as we treat our own. However, some children will cry as this is a normal response to a strange situation. Remember, Dr. Tippets is a Pediatric Dental Specialist and spent extra years in school to master the art of helping children feel comfortable at the dental office.
At the first visit, we will emphasize oral hygiene techniques to be practiced by both you and your child. We will answer any questions you may have. A full examination of the teeth and supporting structures will be done, occlusion (bite) will also be evaluated. Radiographs (X-rays) will be taken as necessary to assure a thorough and comprehensive examination and a topical treatment of fluoride will be provided. Subsequent appointments will be scheduled as needed. When treatment has been completed, your child will be placed on a periodic exam schedule and you will receive a reminder card when the visit is due.
2. What is your philosophy of treatment?
Our emphasis is on "prevention" both in the office and at home. We recommend regular periodic exams and cleanings as well as positive and thorough home care. Home care includes limited sweets, and brushing two times a day. Flossing will be discussed by Dr. Tippets if it is necessary as not all children need to floss. Because the primary teeth form the basis of the adult dentition, we will do everything possible to preserve the integrity of your child's teeth while fostering a healthy and relaxed attitude toward dental care. We offer a full range of dental services for children, adolescents, teens, young adults, and all ages of patients with special needs.
3. When will the condition of my child's teeth and supporting structures be discussed with me? Who will explain what work is needed and how much it will cost?
At the conclusion of your child's exam Dr. Tippets will meet with you to explain what treatment is recommended, if any. Before you leave the office, our financial supervisor will discuss fees and options for payment.
Your aim as a parent and my aim as a dentist are the same, to keep your child's teeth and mouth in good health and to make the process of doing so a pleasant one for everyone.
Sincerely,
Dr. Derren E. Tippets
Did You Know?
One of the healthiest snacks is cheese for your children’s teeth?
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| Brushing |
Toothpaste with flouride should be introduced when a child is 2-3 years of age. Prior to that, parents should clean the child's teeth with water and a soft-bristled toothbrush.
| Tooth Decay |
After each feeding, gently wipe your baby’s gums with a clean gauze pad.
| Check Up|
A child's first dental visit should be scheduled around his/her first birthday. The most important part of the visit is getting to know and becoming comfortable with a doctor and his staff.