Your Child’s Dental Home

At Elkhart Pediatric Dentistry, we, along with the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), recommend establishing a “Dental Home” early—by your child’s first birthday or as soon as their first tooth appears. Children with a Dental Home are more likely to receive proper preventive and routine care, setting the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

What is a Dental Home?

A Dental Home is the ongoing relationship between our office and your child, where care is:

• Comprehensive

• Accessible

• Coordinated

• Family-centered

Our goal is to make sure your child feels safe, confident, and comfortable while receiving the highest quality care.

Your Child’s First Visit

During your infant or toddler’s first appointment, our doctor will:

• Provide age-appropriate guidance

• Share nutritional and preventive care tips

• Help you make a positive impact on your child’s dental and overall health

We’ll also take the time to let your child get familiar with our office, so their visits become a natural and positive experience.

After the first visit, we recommend check-ups every six months, which typically include:

• Professional cleaning

• Full oral exam

• Fluoride application

• Healthy hygiene & eating guidance

• X-rays (as needed)

Our team is committed to making every visit fun, relaxed, and encouraging!

What to Expect at Each Appointment

• Check-In: Our staff will confirm your child’s health and insurance information.

• Exam: Your child will receive a gentle cleaning, fluoride treatment, and x-rays if needed.

• Assessment: Our doctor will evaluate your child’s oral health and create a personalized prevention plan.

For children over the age of 2, we recommend allowing them to accompany our staff into the treatment room independently. This often helps children feel more confident and engaged in the visit. However, you are always welcome to join your child if you prefer.

👉 For the safety and privacy of all patients, siblings not being treated should remain in the reception area.

Helping Your Child Feel Comfortable

• Avoid negative dental words such as “drill,” “shot,” or “hurt.”

• Instead, talk about the dentist in a positive way.

• Read fun, age-appropriate books together, such as:

  • Curious George Visits the Dentist

  • Sugar Bugs

  • Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip

Cancellation Policy

Each appointment time is reserved exclusively for your child. Please notify our office at least 48 hours in advance if you need to cancel or reschedule. This allows us to offer the time to another patient in need of care.

Appointments not cancelled or rescheduled within 48 hours may be subject to a $50 fee. We understand that unexpected things happen and appreciate your cooperation.

Motivational Charts

Your child will enjoy healthy dental habits when they use these Motivational Charts. Encourage regular brushing or help them break the thumb-sucking habit.