Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an Appointment
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Starting Their Dental Journey
Your child's first trip to the dentist is a significant milestone! We make it easy for you by outlining everything you need to know to make their first visit a positive one.
Say Aloha to Your Child's First Dental Adventure!
Is it your first time taking your child to the dentist? Or maybe you've taken them before but it didn't go too smoothly. Don't worry, we're here to make it a little easier on you. These are tried and true methods that help your child feel at ease in
the dental chair.
Play pretend at home
Set up a mock dental visit with stuffed animals or dolls. Let your child be the dentist, showing them it's a safe and fun experience.
Choose the right time
Schedule the appointment when your child is well-rested and not hungry. We recommend younger children ages 1-5 see us in the mornings versus the afternoons, so that they are better able to interact and enjoy the experience.
Positive reinforcement works wonders
Promise a small, non-food reward. This gives your child something to look forward to after the visit.
Read books and imagine
Fun stories or videos can help your child feel more familiar and excited about their upcoming adventure.
Is your child under 3? We recommend scheduling their first visit when that first tooth appears to make sure everything is developing just right. And when that first baby tooth starts to wiggle? That’s another great time to come see us! Let’s make those early dental milestones fun and stress-free.
What to Expect?
Whether you're a first-time parent bringing your infant into their first dental visit or your child is already a dental expert, we're here to welcome you with a big Aloha! Here's what you can expect at their first visit.
Scheduling and
Preparation
In line with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry's recommendations, you should schedule your child's first dental visit by their first birthday or as soon as their first tooth comes in. However, if you have any concerns about your child's dental health, earlier visits are always welcome. To prepare for this important milestone, take some time to explain the upcoming visit to your child in a positive, age-appropriate manner.
Introduction to
the ‘Aloha’ Way of Dentistry
Upon arrival at the dental office, your child will be gently introduced to dental instruments in a friendly, non-threatening way. The dentist will show all instruments to your child and encourage them to touch and experience these tools on their fingers first. This hands-on approach helps familiarize your child with the equipment before any oral examination begins.
Keiki-Friendly
Terminology
To create a comfortable and fun atmosphere, we use special "child-friendly" language, rephrasing common dental terms to be less intimidating for children. This thoughtful approach helps reduce anxiety and makes the experience more enjoyable. Remember, the primary goal is to make your child's first dental visit a positive experience, setting a strong foundation for good oral health habits and comfortable future visits.
What To Bring To The Appointment
After you’ve scheduled your child’s first visit, it’s important to gather some important items to ensure an easy-breezy check-in process:
- New patient forms
- Dental insurance card
- Valid form of ID
- Your child’s favorite toy or blanket
- List of any questions
Dental Home
Establishing a
Establishing a dental home is a key recommendation from the American Dental Association, and for good reason. At Aloha Pediatric Dentistry, we embrace this concept wholeheartedly. A dental home provides your child with a trusted, familiar place for all their oral health needs - from routine check-ups to dental emergencies.
By choosing us as your dental home, you're giving your child a foundation for lifelong oral health, reducing anxiety, and creating positive associations with dental care.
How We Create
Stellar Visits
Comfort meets quality pediatric dentistry
Kid-Friendly Waiting Area
You know that feeling when you first arrive in Hawaii and you instantly feel at ease? We've designed our office to reflect that. Our waiting room is a little slice of paradise, designed to transport you and your keiki (children) to the islands. Surrounded by tropical decor and the soothing sounds of Hawaiian music, you'll feel the stress melt away as soon as you step inside.
Retro Toys
Take yourself back to the good old days. Our patients (and parents) love our collection of simple retro toys, including water toys, Etch-A-Sketch, and books about teeth and Hawaii.
Entertainment During Treatment
Your child's favorite characters make treatment go easier. When needed, we offer streaming of shows and movies during filling procedures, providing a helpful distraction for our young patients.
FAQs
Find answers to common questions about your child's first visit.
Do I stay with my child during the visit?
How often should my child visit the dentist?
What should I do if my child has a dental emergency?
Do you accept insurance?