New Patients

Your Child's First Visit

We know a first dental visit can feel like a big deal. That's why we do everything possible to make it fun, comfortable, and stress-free — for kids and parents alike.

Book First Visit

Child excited for their first dental visit

What to Expect

Your Visit, Step by Step

Here's exactly what happens during your child's first visit, so there are no surprises for anyone.

Warm Welcome

Your family is greeted by our friendly, bilingual team. Kids can explore our fun waiting area while you complete a quick check-in.

Meet Dr. Liz

Dr. Liz introduces herself and takes time to get to know your child. She explains everything in a fun, kid-friendly way — no surprises!

Gentle Exam

A thorough but gentle examination of teeth, gums, and bite. We use kid-sized tools and go at your child's pace.

Cleaning & Fluoride

A gentle cleaning followed by a fluoride treatment to strengthen enamel. Kids get to pick their favorite flavor!

Talk with Parents

Dr. Liz reviews findings with you, discusses any concerns, and creates a personalized care plan for your child.

Schedule Next Visit

Before you leave, we'll schedule the next appointment and your child gets to pick a prize from our treasure chest!

Be Prepared

What to Bring

Dental insurance card
Parent/guardian photo ID
Medical history & medications list
Previous dental records (if available)
A comfort item (blanket, toy, or stuffed animal)

Insurance & Payment

We accept Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) and most PPO dental insurance plans. Our team will verify your coverage and explain any costs before treatment begins — no surprises.

Not sure if we accept your plan? Call us at (209) 544-8800 and we'll check for you right away.

Medi-Cal / Denti-Cal PPO Plans Free Coverage Check

Parent Tips

Preparing Your Child

A little preparation at home goes a long way. Here are our top tips for making your child's first visit a success.

Talk Positively

Use happy, encouraging words about the dentist. Avoid words like "pain," "shot," or "hurt" — Dr. Liz has her own kid-friendly vocabulary.

Read Dental Books

Books like "The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist" help normalize the experience. Your local library has great options!

Role-Play at Home

Play "dentist" with your child — count their teeth, look at their smile in a mirror. This makes the real visit feel familiar.

Bring a Comfort Item

A favorite stuffed animal or blanket can help your child feel secure. They're always welcome in the treatment room.

Stay Calm & Positive

Kids pick up on parents' anxiety. Your relaxed, upbeat attitude is the biggest predictor of how your child will feel.

FAQ

Questions About First Visits

When should my child have their first dental visit?

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a child's first visit by age 1, or within 6 months of the first tooth appearing. Early visits help us establish a baseline, catch potential issues early, and get your child comfortable with the dental office.

What if my child is scared or anxious?

This is completely normal and we're experts at helping nervous kids! Dr. Liz uses a "tell-show-do" approach, explaining everything at the child's level before doing it. We go at their pace, take breaks when needed, and make every visit as positive as possible. Many kids who start out scared end up looking forward to their appointments.

How long does the first visit take?

A first visit typically takes about 45 minutes to an hour. This includes time for your child to get comfortable, a thorough exam, cleaning, fluoride treatment, and a conversation with parents about findings and next steps.

Do you offer sedation for anxious children?

We focus on behavior management techniques that help children cope without sedation in most cases. For children with special needs or extreme anxiety, we can discuss additional options. Please call our office to discuss your child's specific situation.

Can I stay with my child during the appointment?

Absolutely! Parents are always welcome in the treatment room. We find that having a parent nearby helps younger children feel safe and secure. We'll also keep you informed about everything we're doing throughout the visit.