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The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth — whichever comes first.
At Dentistry for Children and Teens in Atlanta, we typically begin care at age 1.5, focusing on prevention, parent education, and helping each child develop comfort in the dental environment. Whether you’re a first-time parent or transitioning from another office, here’s exactly what to expect during your child’s first visit.
Why Early Dental Visits Matter
Many parents delay dental visits until a problem arises. But in reality, early care is all about prevention and education, not procedures. These early visits help:
- Catch issues before they become emergencies
- Build trust with your child through gentle desensitization
- Empower parents with strategies to maintain oral health at home
- Establish a “dental home” — a consistent place for care as your child grows
We take a conservative pediatric approach, which means we don’t overtreat or rush into procedures. Our goal is to keep your child healthy — not busy with unnecessary dental work.
Learn more about our approach to Pediatric Dentistry in Atlanta.
Meet Your Child’s Dental Team
All first visits are conducted by one of our board-certified pediatric dentists — either Dr. Colton Fowlkes, D.M.D. or Dr. Wesley Powell, DDS, MS.
Their specialized training includes:
- Child psychology and behavior management
- Growth and developmental milestones
- Minimally invasive, child-focused treatment strategies
- Sedation and special needs dentistry (if needed later)
Unlike general or corporate dentists who "see kids," our doctors have years of additional training focused entirely on the developing child.
What Happens During a First Visit?
Your child’s first dental appointment is usually short, gentle, and focused on establishing trust. Here’s what it includes:
1. A Comfort-Focused Introduction
We call it a "Happy Visit." Your child is introduced to the environment at their pace. We encourage parents to sit nearby, ask questions, and participate.
2. A Thorough Dental Exam
The dentist will examine:
- Gums and existing baby teeth
- Tooth eruption patterns
- Tongue and oral tissue development
- Bite alignment and habits like thumb-sucking
If age-appropriate, we may also perform Digital X-rays using a handheld Nomad X-ray — which emits extremely low radiation and allows your child to stay comfortably seated with their assistant nearby.
3. Gentle Cleaning & Preventive Treatments
If your child is comfortable, we may perform a light Cleaning and Fluoride Treatment. This helps remove plaque and strengthen developing teeth.
Later, as adult molars begin to emerge (usually around age 6), we’ll talk to you about Cavity Prevention, including sealants and dietary guidance.
What Should I Bring to the Appointment?
To help us provide personalized care, please bring:
- Your child’s dental insurance information (we accept all PPO plans; see our insurance details)
- Any previous dental or medical records
- A list of medications or known allergies
- Your child’s favorite toy or comfort item (if helpful)
We want the visit to feel unrushed and supportive — for you and your child.
What If My Child Has Anxiety or Sensory Needs?
Our team is trained in behavioral techniques, sensory awareness, and sedation options for children who need more support. Whether your child is on the autism spectrum, has medical needs, or simply feels overwhelmed in clinical settings, we offer:
- Quiet, modern rooms
- Individualized pacing and sensory adaptation
- Nitrous Oxide (“Laughing Gas”) when appropriate
- Access to our Special Needs Dentistry team
Our pediatric dentists work in tandem with our in-house anesthesiologist for advanced care when needed — without ever referring your child out to a hospital or external provider.
How Often Should My Child Return?
After the first visit, most children are seen every six months for:
- Routine cleanings
- Preventive screenings
- Developmental checks
- Ongoing education for both child and parent
As your child grows, we’ll also begin monitoring for early orthodontic needs, transitions to adult teeth, and lifestyle risks like sports injuries or sugar-heavy diets.
Looking for a PPO Pediatric Dentist in Atlanta?
We proudly serve PPO-insured families across Brookhaven, Tucker, Chamblee, Decatur, and greater Atlanta (30345). As a PPO-only boutique practice, we are designed for families who want time, quality, and board-certified expertise — not rushed, one-size-fits-all care.
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