New Patient Procedures
Kids
A parent or legal guardian must accompany the child for this first visit since this person will be asked to fill out our new patient form. The parent should also bring a list of any medications the child may be taking and be prepared to discuss any behavioural or health issues. This information is important because it helps us to treat and manage your child in a safe and effective manner. To see an electronic copy of our new patient chart click here for a PDF version.
According to the Canadian Dental Association, kids should be assessed by a dentist within 6 months of the eruption of the first tooth or by their first birthday. At the first appointment, your dentist can have a look at the eruption of the baby’s teeth, visually inspect for cavities and go over any oral hygiene questions with the parents.
More than anything, the initial visit allows your child to get used to coming to the dentist and experience the dental environment for the first time in a positive way. Children who establish an early and regular dental routine are more likely to form a lifetime habit of good oral care.
When preparing for your child’s first visit to the dentist, don’t make the mistake of letting your preconceptions colour your child’s perception. The best predictor of a child’s behaviour in the dental chair is the parent’s level of anxiety. In most cases, if the parent is nervous, the child is going to feel the same way. Your job as a parent is to make your child’s first visit a positive experience. Children old enough to understand should be told what a dentist does; when doing so, avoid providing details that may cause your child to fear the upcoming visit. The dentists and their staff are trained to explain what they are doing in a safe and secure manner that minimizes any anxiety your child may feel. It’s in everyone’s best interest that your child forms positive associations.
Remember that young children are often fearful. Some are afraid of being separated from their parents, others from the unknown, and some are just shy. We treat many children in our office and have many ways of helping an anxious or fearful child learn to understand and cope with their dental visits. Explain to your child that the dentist is there to help them with the very important job of keeping their teeth and gums healthy. If your child needs extra special treatment we may refer them to one of the pediatric specialists in town.
Adults
Bring your smile, but also remember to bring these with you to your first appointment:
- Your insurance card and detailed booklet
- A list of any medications you are taking
Be sure you are able to answer these questions:
- Who is your physician?
- Do you have any ongoing health concerns we should know about? (i.e. diabetes, allergies, heart or blood pressure issues?)
- When was the date of your last dental visit? And with whom?
- Have you ever had any major dental work? (i.e. root canal fillings, orthodontics, mouth surgery, bridges or dentures?)
- Other questions relevant to giving you the safest and most comfortable treatment
For a full list, you can download a PDF version of our new patient chart you will be filling out when you arrive for your first visit.
If you have been visiting another dentist who has already generated X-rays and reports, it would be helpful if you let us know before your first appointment so we can request these from your previous dentist.