At Gateway Little Smiles, Dr. Hastings and Dr. Ashley roll out the red carpet for your baby’s first dental visit. The Turning 1 Campaign in Collinsville welcomes parents and tiny teeth with a gentle, exciting experience that sets the stage for lifelong oral health. Pediatric dental visits should begin by age one, and our dentists make that milestone feel more like a party than a check-up. With kid-friendly care, cheerful staff, and a warm, welcoming environment, we turn the average visit into a celebration.
We understand the importance of early dental care. Our team equips parents with tools to protect baby teeth and monitor developmental milestones from the very beginning. When your little one walks (or gets carried) through our doors, our team greets them with smiles, songs, and maybe even a sticker.
We designed the Turning 1 Campaign to help parents build confidence in dental visits, ask questions, and learn to care for their child’s smile long before cavities can form. Take a look at how we make that first appointment special.
Why Baby Teeth Deserve a Birthday Bash
The dentist knows many parents feel unsure about bringing a baby to the dental office. But delaying those early visits often leads to surprises down the road. At Gateway Little Smiles, our team uses the Turning 1 Campaign to promote proactive care that prevents problems before they start. We also provide compassionate, individualized care for children with special needs to ensure every child feels safe and supported during their visit.
Here’s why those little teeth need big attention:
- Baby teeth hold space for permanent teeth and guide them into place.
- Early visits help dentists catch oral issues like tongue ties or bite alignment.
- Toddlers who start early learn to trust the dentist and feel calm during appointments.
- Cavities can develop as soon as teeth erupt, especially with sugary drinks or frequent snacking.
- Parents get hands-on tips for cleaning teeth, choosing the right toothpaste, and encouraging good habits.
The Turning 1 Campaign Starts With Giggles, Not Tears
The first dental visit should never feel rushed or clinical. The dentists and their team create a playful, age-appropriate atmosphere that makes your child feel comfortable when you walk in.
Here’s how we welcome your little one into the Gateway Little Smiles family:
- We let your baby stay in your lap during the exam for extra comfort.
- Our staff sings, plays, and engages to build trust with your child.
- The dentist uses gentle tools and soft voices to check gums and teeth.
- Parents get time to ask questions and learn about tooth-friendly snacks, fluoride, and pacifier use.
- We celebrate the milestone with a “Turning 1” certificate and photos if you want to snap one.
Check Out These Helpful First-Visit Tips
The first appointment might feel new to both the baby and the parent. Dr. Hastings offers simple advice to prepare your child and make the most of the visit. A little planning can make this an experience you’ll both enjoy.
- Schedule the appointment when your baby is well-rested, not during nap time.
- Bring a favorite toy or comfort item for distraction.
- Avoid snacks or drinks right before the visit.
- Keep your mood upbeat and relaxed—your baby will pick up on your energy.
- Talk about the dentist, even if your child doesn’t understand yet.
Smile Support Doesn’t Stop After Age One
We don’t stop the party after the first birthday. Gateway Little Smiles supports your child’s oral health throughout every growth stage. Our dentists help kids build bright, healthy smiles, from teething to losing baby teeth.
Check out what we do beyond the first birthday:
- Monitor the growth and spacing of baby and adult teeth
- Offer dental sealants and fluoride treatments as needed
- Provide age-appropriate cleanings and exams
- Teach kids to brush, floss, and love the dentist
- Address thumb-sucking, bottle habits, and diet concerns
Get in Touch With Gateway Little Smiles in Collinsville, Illinois
Our Turning 1 Campaign in Collinsville creates happy, healthy dental beginnings for your little one. Contact us for an appointment with Dr. Hastings and Dr. Ashley at Gateway Little Smiles in Collinsville, Illinois. We’ll answer your questions, explain insurance information and flexible financing, and help your child enjoy their first visit with a smile.
