Services
A child's first visit
A short, calm first visit for a child age 3 or older, with a parent right beside them.
Nothing starts until your child is ready. Children can look at the instruments, hold the mirror and watch the hygienist count teeth before anyone looks in their mouth.
What happens at the first visit
- 01
Step 1: Meet the hygienist
Melanie or Erasmo says hello, shows your child the chair and lets them try the controls that tip it back.
- 02
Step 2: Show and tell
We count teeth with a mirror and show how to brush on a tooth model. Children brush the model first.
- 03
Step 3: A quick look
Dr. Casillas looks at your child's teeth while a parent stays close. A first visit is usually shorter than an adult's, often two or three visits to get comfortable.
- 04
Step 4: A plan for home
You leave with a brushing routine that fits your child, and a time for the next visit.
Good to know
Comfort
Parents stay in the room. We tell your child what we're about to do before we do it, and a raised hand means stop. We use numbing only if a tooth needs treatment, and we explain it first.
If you wait
A child who skips the dentist can still have cavities that no one has seen. The visit is a chance to find a small one while it's small, and to answer a parent's questions.
Risks and after-care
A first visit usually needs no numbing. If your child needs treatment later, Dr. Casillas explains what it is and the risks to you first. Brushing at home is a big part of children's dental care, and we show you how.
How it's billed
Plans that cover children usually cover routine visits. If you have none, you get a written estimate in advance. Dr. Casillas is a general dentist, and the estimate comes before any treatment.
How fees work
Questions about first visits
How old does a child need to be?
We see children from age 3. If your child is younger, call us and we'll talk about whether to come in or to see a dentist who sees very young children.
Can a parent stay in the room?
Yes. Parents stay beside their child for the whole visit.
What if my child is scared?
That's common. We go slowly, show each tool first and stop whenever your child asks. You can also bring a favorite toy.
Can brothers and sisters come together?
Yes. Ask for the whole family in one request and we'll book the visits back to back.
Provided by a general dentist
Care here is provided by Dr. Elba Casillas, DDS, a general dentist licensed in Texas. Her license is listed in the footer.