A first dental or orthodontic visit can bring on all kinds of feelings. Excitement, curiosity, jitters, a whole swirl of “what happens next?” Whether you’re bringing in your baby for their very first checkup, scheduling your child’s orthodontic consultation, or finally treating yourself to the braces or Invisalign you’ve been thinking about, a first visit is a big milestone.
At Surfside Smile Co., we want this moment to feel relaxed, easy, and (yes) even fun. From a friendly welcome to a guided tour of our surf-inspired office, we do everything we can to help you feel right at home. Consider this your inside look at what actually happens at a first visit — no guesswork, no surprises.
Let’s ride the wave together.
Babies change fast, and their smiles are no exception. Pediatric dental experts recommend a baby’s first visit when the first tooth appears or around 6 months old — whichever comes first. It’s a quick, gentle appointment that lets us check early development and gives parents a chance to ask questions and learn what to expect as more teeth arrive.
These early visits also help your child get comfortable with the sights and sounds of the dental office. If your little one feels a bit unsure, you can stay right beside them the whole time. And if nerves tend to show up at appointments, we put together a gentle guide on helping kids feel more confident at the dentist.
It surprises some parents to hear that orthodontists like to meet kids by age 7. At this age, baby teeth are still present, but the first permanent teeth are coming in. This gives us a clear picture of how your child’s bite and smile are developing.
Some orthodontic concerns are easy to spot, like mild crowding or spacing. Others, such as jaw growth patterns or the way the bite fits together, can be harder for parents to notice. An early assessment helps us monitor these changes and recommend treatment only when it is truly needed.
This is where the fun starts. A first visit at Surfside Smile Co. has a helpful structure, but it never feels rushed or impersonal. Every step is designed to help you or your child feel comfortable, informed, and cared for.
When you arrive, our team will greet you, answer questions, and show you around our bright, beachy office. You’ll get a feel for the space, meet the people who will be taking care of you, and get settled before anything clinical happens.
Once you're ready, we’ll take a look at your smile. For kids, this is quick and gentle. For older patients, we may also take digital images or low-dose X-rays so the doctor can get a full picture of what’s going on beneath the surface.
These tools help us understand your teeth, bite, airway, and jaw growth patterns. They also help us create a customized treatment plan that’s built just for you.
After reviewing your images and exam results, your doctor will sit down with you and walk through everything — what we’re seeing, what looks great, and what we may want to monitor or adjust.
This conversation is relaxed, open, and collaborative. We encourage questions. We want you to understand your options, whether that includes monitoring growth, early orthodontic appliances, braces, or Invisalign.
You’ll never feel pressured or talked at. This is about finding the right path forward for your unique situation.
If orthodontic care is recommended, we’ll go over the options that fit your smile and lifestyle:
We’ll discuss timing, estimated treatment duration, and what to expect at each stage. Nothing is decided without your input.
Finances should never feel like a barrier to a healthy smile. After your consultation, you’ll meet with our treatment coordinator, who will walk you through costs, insurance benefits, and payment options.
Here’s what you can expect:
Our goal is to make care accessible and stress-free. No surprises, no hidden fees, no pressure.
We provide any paperwork you need upon arrival. If your child has medical conditions or takes medications, you’re welcome to bring notes or information about those. If records from a previous dentist are needed, we can request them on your behalf.
Not usually. The first visit focuses on evaluation, discussion, and planning. Placing braces happens at a scheduled appointment afterward so we can dedicate enough time to do it right.
Most appointments take about an hour. This includes images, the exam, meeting the doctor, exploring treatment options, and reviewing financial details.
When you return to get braces, plan for about two hours. This includes prepping the teeth, placing brackets and wires, and making sure everything feels comfortable before you leave.
Whether you're seeking pediatric dental care, a first orthodontic consultation, or braces or Invisalign in Middletown, NJ, Surfside Smile Co. is ready to welcome you in. Your first visit shouldn’t feel overwhelming. It should feel empowering, supportive, and even a little bit fun.
Schedule your appointment today, and let’s start building the healthy, happy smile you deserve.
Enjoy a Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation for anyone 7+.
Call 732-639-0011 or request an appointment online to set up your first visit. We’ll be in touch soon.