The most common question we have regarding children is about what age should they start going to the dentist. At Stone Oak Pediatric Dentistry, we follow the guidelines of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry on when a child should first see a dentist. Accordingly, you should bring your child to see us when the first tooth comes through the gums. During the first dental visit, we will get to know your child and get him/her acquainted with the dental office.
During the initial visit, we also evaluate the child’s dental health, as well as offer tips in good dental care for your child. Our goal is to have all of our patients and parents feel comfortable and happy about visiting the dentist!
For your child’s first visit to Stone Oak Pediatric Dentistry, we like to do a comprehensive examination. This includes looking at your child’s teeth along with the supporting structures of the gums. We will also address your child’s oral hygiene, as well as clean your child’s teeth. We will look at your child’s bite and will only take X-rays if necessary. This is the optimal time to ask questions about your child’s mouth and teeth.
A common complaint of parents is that their child is afraid of going to the dentist. At Stone Oak Pediatric Dentistry, we are experienced in making a child’s first visit to the dentist as easy and comfortable as possible.
Keep in mind that some children are more nervous or anxious in new situations or environments. That is perfectly understandable. We encourage parents to be open and honest with their children about questions or fears they have regarding their first visit to the dentist.
If we have received all of your insurance information before the day of the appointment, we will be happy to file your claim for you. You must be familiar with your insurance benefits, as we will collect from you the estimated amount insurance is not expected to pay. Please understand this is just an estimate. You are responsible for any balance on your account that insurance does not cover.
PLEASE UNDERSTAND that we file dental insurance as a courtesy to our patients. We are not responsible for how your insurance company handles its claims or for what benefits they pay on a claim. We can only assist you in estimating your portion of the cost of treatment. We at no time guarantee what your insurance will or will not do with each claim.
MOST IMPORTANTLY, please keep us informed of any insurance changes such as policy name, insurance company address, or a change of employment. Our office requires 48 hours notice to verify any new insurance plans.