What Is a Lap Visit?

Posted on 2/22/2021 by Fariba Mutschler

Even the most adventurous of children can become a little nervous or apprehensive when being exposed to new and unusual things, such as their first dental visit. With that said, getting your child to the dentist by their first birthday and at regular intervals of every six months is vital to their overall development. That is why our professionals incorporate several different techniques to help your child become comfortable with visiting the dentist. Among these, lap visits have been found to be one of the most effective and easy to use accommodations.

A lap visit is simply a visit that involves conducting your child's oral exam while you hold them. You will typically be asked to sit down in the procedure chair and turn your child towards you. You will then be directed to gently tilt your child backward, towards our professional so that they can get a clear view of their mouth. Holding onto your child in this manner can be a strong source of comfort while still allowing them to receive proper dental care.

How Long Are Lap Visits Used?

Generally speaking, lap visits are only recommended for your child's first couple of trips to the dentist. Of course, accommodations can be made for children with unique physical or mental health needs. There are several reasons for transitioning away from lap visits as your child ages.

One reason is that it can be difficult for you to safely hold your child as they grow larger, which can outweigh the benefits of holding them in your lap. In addition, slightly older children can be negatively affected by lap visits, which can create an over-dependence and hinder our team's ability to build a relationship of trust and positivity with your child. If you would like to learn more about the ways that our team can serve your child, call our office today.

My daughter was a little nervous to have her dental work done but everyone in the office was super friendly and very reassuring and that helped her nervousness go away. Thanks for the excellent dental experience. ~ Lilyana G.

Get in Touch!

PHONE
(971) 470-0054

Email
portland@greatgrins.net

Request
Appointment

Our Dental Blog | Great Grins Pediatric Dentistry - Portland, OR
Dr. Fariba Mutschler & Dr. Mark Mutschler have created this informative blog to help educate the community. If you like an article or the dental blog in general please use the share it button to post to Facebook, Twitter, or Google+.
Great Grins for KIDS Portland, 13908 SE Stark Street, Ste C, Portland, OR 97233-2161 / (971) 470-0054 / portlandchildrensdentist.com / 9/25/2023 / Associated Words: pediatric dentist Portland /