Planning For Your First Visit

Eruption of teeth can vary greatly for each child. Many children will begin to develop teeth between 6 to 9 months of age; however, it is not uncommon for a 12 month old to have 8 or less teeth. It is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) that all children visit their pediatric dentist for an examination by the age of 1 year.

Before Your Visit

Prior to your child’s first visit to Leander Pediatric Dentistry, we will contact you with instructions for completing paperwork necessary for treatment of your child. By completing most paperwork in advance, it allows both our patients and their parents to experience what it is that sets our office apart.

Click here for New Patient Forms

Before the age of 3 years, we ask that parents accompany their children during their entire dental visit. Our dental experience has shown that after this age, most patients excel by visiting the clinical area with their new found friends…patients and team, with the parents in the reception area. By looking to us for interaction rather than their parents, this opportunity builds their self-esteem and confidence since they become proud of their independence. In addition to developing a relationship with Dr. Scott and his team, the patients quickly realize that Leander Pediatric Dentistry is one of the rare places that the child can truly call their own.

Although this is usually the best experience as a rule of thumb, parents are allowed in the clinic and Dr. Scott enjoys visiting the parents as well. We know that your child’s first visit to the dentist is a very important milestone and we are confident that choosing Leander Pediatric Dentistry is a great decision.

Frequently Asked Questions about First Dental Visits

We understand how many resources there are for finding dental information. The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry is the most trusted source for accurate, up to date information. They even have a website dedicated to parents, which can be found here.

Remember these are only guidelines and are not meant to substitute a clinical evaluation and prescribed dental care provided by your dentist. If you still require assistance, please contact us directly. Our knowledgeable team will be able to answer any of your questions live and in person!

In order to prevent dental problems, your child should see a pediatric dentist when the first tooth appears, or no later than his/her first birthday.

Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. A pediatric dentist has two to three years specialty training following dental school and limits his/her practice to treating children only. Pediatric dentists are primary and specialty oral care providers for infants and children through adolescence, including those with special health needs.

Primary, or “baby,” teeth are important for many reasons. Not only do they help children speak clearly and chew naturally, they also aid in forming a path that permanent teeth can follow when they are ready to erupt.

Thumb and pacifier sucking habits will generally only become a problem if they go on for a very long period of time. Most children stop these habits on their own, but if they are still sucking their thumbs or fingers past the age of three, a mouth appliance may be recommended by your pediatric dentist.

No insurance,
no problem.

Insurance companies are expensive, confusing, and frustrating.

They deny your benefits, delay your coverage, and complicate your treatment. Our membership program is designed to help you easily receive the preventative dental care you need, while simplifying your experience with our practice.