First Steps

Thank you for taking the first step towards a lifetime of dental health for your kids. The American Dental Association (ADA), The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), and our office suggest taking children to their first dental visit when their first tooth appears. It may seem early, but cavities can form once teeth are exposed. By being proactive, you and your child can create good habits to keep their smile (and yours) healthy for life. Here at Pediatric Tooth Journeys, we patiently teach and treat with gentleness and care in order to leave a lasting positive impression, helping children overcome any fears of dentistry.

Patients 6 months old to 21 years old, and those with special needs can visit Dr. Josephine Lac for consultations or comprehensive dental care.

Have more questions or would like to make an appointment?

**Please do not include private health information in online inquiries.

Make an appointment

What to expect

We look forward to meeting you on your first visit to our office! We will ask you to fill out or bring:

> Patient Registration

> Medical History

> Treatment Consent forms

> Insurance card (or any other pertinent information)

See Sample Insurance Card

After getting acquainted with our staff and dentist, there will be an examination or consultation, where the dentist will discuss the results and potential treatment options. Dr. Lac and her team strongly believe that parents and kids should take an active role when learning about and taking care of their teeth. We gladly welcome any questions you have.

During the first visit, parents are welcome to stay with their child during the appointment. However, for future appointments, we suggest allowing your child to accompany our staff through their little journey. This gives us the opportunity to establish a closer rapport with your child, which helps us gain your child's trust and overcome apprehension. However, if you would like to stay with your child, or if they are too young or unable to sit by themselves, you are welcome to accompany them or have them in your lap in the dental chair. Infants and Toddlers may sometimes require Knee to Knee Exams.

For the safety and privacy of our patients, children not being treated should remain in the reception with a supervising adult.

Already have an appointment?

Please fill out these forms and bring them with you to your first appointment, along with your insurance card or insurance information.

See Forms and Documents

Preparing for your visit

We want you and your child to feel at ease when you visit our office. Though we try our best to make your visit pleasant, parents and family members can help a great deal when preparing your child for their appointment.

Start early!
If your child is scared or apprehensive, reassure them by talking to them about what is going to happen using positive words.
Think of the appointment as a happy and fun experience. There are lots of resources like books and videos that can help prepare your child and ease their anxiety.
Avoid using words like: drill, needle, shots, pull, or pain.
Practice opening their mouth wide so the dentist can count and check their teeth.
When scheduling an appointment, avoid scheduling during naptime hours for young children
Make sure your child has eaten a light meal an hour or two and brushed their teeth before the appointment, so that they won't be hungry during the visit.

Parents can prepare also! You can also educate yourself by reviewing dental facts, procedures, symptoms, or treatments, so that you may make informed decisions, ask about what you don't know, or ease feelings of anxiety. Conscientious parents are great role models to inspire curiosity and healthy habits in children who grow up to be active in their own health.

Children are not born scared of dentists or doctors, but they can fear unknown, new experiences. By doing these small things, you and your child can come in for their visit prepared and relaxed. They may even be excited to come back and learn!

Learn more at mouthhealthy.org, a great resource by ADA.

See our Frequently Asked Questions

Have general questions? See our FAQ page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Pediatric Tooth Journeys