First Visit

We are grateful to partner with many excellent general dentists in providing care for their pediatric patients. All new referrals will begin with a consultation appointment before scheduling treatment. Every child is unique, and getting to know them beforehand allows us to provide the best possible care.

To ensure a smooth visit, please have all relevant information and available X-rays sent to Dr. Philip before your consultation. This will help us better prepare for your appointment and address any questions or concerns you may have.

On your first visit to our office, please bring your insurance card and our First Visit Packet already completed.

Your insurance determines your deductible. Any amount not covered by your insurance will be due that day.

We accept most insurance plans and, as a courtesy, will submit your insurance claim on your behalf. Any portion not covered by your insurance is your responsibility and is due at the time of service. If full payment is not made at the time of your visit, a statement will be sent, which may include a service fee.

It is important to understand your insurance benefits, including deductibles and co-pays. While we do not control insurance policies, we will do our best to help you navigate your coverage.

For more details, you can download Dental Insurance and Our Office and/or the Payment/Financial Agreement.

We are happy to discuss fees and insurance with parents before their child's first visit.

Our reception team is available to go over these details and answer any questions you may have before scheduling your appointment.

It is completely normal for children to feel nervous about their first dental visit.

Pediatric dentists receive specialized training to help anxious children feel at ease during their appointments. Additionally, our office is designed to create a welcoming and comfortable environment. Our team members are dedicated to pediatric care because they genuinely enjoy working with children and making their experience positive.

Please review our TIPS for a Smooth Visit and The Anxious Child!

Scheduling multiple children from the same family at the same time is never an issue for our team. We understand that parents have busy schedules, and we strive to stay on time while providing the best care for your family.

We understand that children's behavior can sometimes be unpredictable, and some patients may need extra time and attention during their visit. If we happen to be running behind, please know that we will never compromise your child’s treatment time or quality of care.

During your child’s first visit, they will meet one of our Pediatric Dental Hygienists in one of our specially designed Pediatric Rooms. We encourage your child to explore their new dental surroundings.

Based on your child’s age and comfort level, Dr. Slonkosky and his team will determine the best approach for the visit. The hygienist will start by getting to know your child while reviewing key hygiene and prevention tips. If your child feels comfortable, they will be guided through their first cleaning.

Dr. Slonkosky will then assess whether x-rays are needed to check for cavities or other concerns. With your consent, we will take the necessary x-rays. Afterward, Dr. Slonkosky will examine your child and share his findings. Each exam includes a review of your child's growth and development to assess any potential orthodontic needs. If further treatment is required, we will gladly schedule the next appointment that day.

Managing Fear. Children are more important than their teeth, and our primary goal is to provide treatment in a way that minimizes stress. However, we understand that sometimes it’s not always possible to avoid anxiety. While you're in the treatment room, we ask that you play a supportive role in guiding your child’s behavior. It’s important to establish cooperation and trust between Dr. Philip, the dental team, and your child.

We explain procedures to children in simple, reassuring terms. For example, an exam becomes "looking and counting teeth," and a cleaning is described as "brushing and tickling your teeth." We avoid words like "hurt" and "needle" that could create unnecessary worry. We encourage parents to use these gentle terms when discussing dental visits with their child, as certain words can cause anxiety and apprehension.

Our goal is to ensure your child feels as comfortable as possible, and we appreciate your help in making this happen.

For further information see the section TIPS for a Smooth Visit and The Anxious Child!

Your support during your child’s appointment is both helpful and encouraged. We want you to feel confident that your child is receiving the best possible care. We aim to keep the atmosphere light and enjoyable during visits. However, if your child is having difficulty cooperating and treatment has begun, we will complete the necessary work. Afterward, we can discuss how to address any remaining treatment. At times, if multiple people are speaking to the child, they may become confused or overwhelmed. To build trust and cooperation, we use a soft voice control technique. Your ongoing support during these moments can greatly impact the success of the visit.

We follow these behavior guidance levels:

1. Most children respond well to our positive attitude and engaging conversation.
2. If a child feels nervous, we may use nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to help them relax.
3. If a child remains anxious and non-cooperative even with nitrous oxide, we will stop and discuss the option of oral or IV sedation.

Dr. Slonkosky’s goal is to help your child succeed, and he has refined these techniques over many years. He will only proceed with a treatment plan if you are comfortable with it. If you have any concerns or questions, please feel free to ask. We are here to help!