What to expect at your first visit

Before you arrive

• Register online so check-in is quick. If you'd rather use paper forms, please arrive 15 minutes early.
• Send us your insurance details. We'll check your benefits on your behalf and let you know what your plan should cover before the appointment.
• No insurance? Ask about the Petite Care Membership Plan.

A tour first

New children get a tour of the office so nothing feels unfamiliar. They'll see where they can use their token coins to pick a prize, the laser we use to treat cavities, where we clean our instruments, and maybe even the glow-in-the-dark room.

The visit itself

One of our certified pediatric dental hygienists will clean your child's teeth and apply fluoride, and a pediatric dentist will do a full exam, which includes an airway screening: a quick check of how your child breathes and how the jaws are growing. We'll share anything worth watching. The doctor may recommend digital X-rays if they'll be useful. Every treatment room has a TV on the ceiling, so your child can watch a show while we work.

Parents are welcome in the room for checkups. We'll talk through what we see, how to prevent cavities at home, and anything else on your mind.

On the way out

Children receive token coins to pick a prize on their way out. After a first visit, many families also get a card in the mail with a photo from the day.

Paperwork is on us

We submit dental claims and handle the paperwork, so you don't have to.

Care when the office is closed

As an LPD patient, you can call or text us any time with a concern. Our doctors take turns on call, and we check emergency calls and texts when the office is closed. Often a doctor can walk you through what to do over the phone. For a true dental emergency, we'll arrange to meet you at the office. An after-hours visit fee may apply.

Tips for a good first visit

• Keep it positive and low-key. "We're going to count your teeth" works better than "it won't hurt."
• Read a picture book about the dentist together beforehand.
• Bring a comfort toy, and plan the visit for a time of day your child is usually rested.
• If your child has special needs or strong anxiety, tell us when you book so we can plan the visit around them. More about special care.