A first dental visit is a milestone. We keep it fun, comfortable, and unhurried, while helping parents understand how their child’s teeth and jaw are developing. The goal of the first appointment is trust — a child who leaves willing to come back.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first dental visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. The visit lasts 30 to 45 minutes and covers a gentle exam of teeth, gums, and jaw, plus guidance on brushing and teething. Parents stay with their child throughout.
The first visit is built around helping your child feel safe while our team evaluates their oral health. We move at your child’s pace, explain each step before it happens, and leave time for your questions about teething, brushing, and what comes next for their growing smile.
If your child is already past the toddler years, the same approach applies — a first visit at five or eight is still a first visit, and we treat it that way.
Your family is welcomed at the front desk and your child gets a moment to look around before anything happens. Paperwork is handled while they settle in.
Dr. Kohan introduces himself at your child’s level, shows them the tools, and lets them touch the mirror before it goes anywhere near their mouth.
We check the teeth, gums, jaw, and bite, and note how the baby teeth are erupting. For very young children this can happen knee-to-knee, with your child facing you the whole time.
We tell you what we found in plain language, including the things that are simply worth watching, and answer whatever you want to ask.
You leave with specific guidance on brushing, diet, and habits like thumb sucking, plus a recommended date for the next visit.
Most first visits run 30 to 45 minutes. If your child needs longer to warm up, we give them that time rather than pushing through.
Our team helps your child relax from the moment you walk in, before any dental work is mentioned.
We check the teeth, gums, bite, and overall oral development, taking as much time as your child needs.
We track how baby teeth are erupting and flag anything worth watching as permanent teeth get closer.
Brushing technique, teething, nutrition, thumb sucking, and bottle habits — whatever is relevant to your child’s age.
Where appropriate we discuss fluoride, sealants, and the timing of future oral health exams.
You leave with recommendations shaped around your child’s age, risk level, and how the visit went.
A first dental visit should not be a financial decision. We accept Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) and most major PPO plans, and our front desk verifies your coverage before you come in, so you know what is covered ahead of the appointment.
Parents across Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, and Ontario bring their children to us for the first visit and stay through the teen years. A few reasons why.
We build positive experiences for children at every age, including the ones who arrive already nervous.
Bright rooms, games, and a pace set by children rather than by the schedule. Anxious children can be supported with comfort-focused options.
We treat children exclusively and understand what is normal at each stage of development.
Digital imaging and low-radiation X-rays, used only when there is a clinical reason to look closer.
We work with parents so the habits that protect teeth continue at home between visits.
From the first tooth through braces and, if an injury happens, same-day emergency care.
If you are still deciding where to take your child, our guide on choosing a kids dentist in Chino walks through what to look for.
12413 Central Ave, Chino, CA 91710
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Monday to Thursday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Friday, 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Saturday and Sunday, closed
We are on Central Avenue in Chino, a short drive from most of the surrounding communities. Siblings can usually be booked back to back, which saves a second trip.
Meet Our Doctor
Dr. Kohan has over five years of experience creating healthy, confident smiles for children in Chino. His gentle, child-focused approach makes every visit positive and stress-free.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a first visit by age one, or within six months of the first tooth appearing. If your child is older and has not been seen yet, the right time is now rather than at a particular age.
Usually 30 to 45 minutes. Visits for infants and toddlers are often shorter, since there is less to examine and the priority is a calm experience.
A gentle look at the teeth, gums, jaw, and bite, a conversation about home care, and a plan for what comes next. A cleaning may be included depending on your child’s age and comfort.
Yes, for a first visit we encourage it. For infants and toddlers we often use a knee-to-knee position where your child faces you the whole time. As children get older, many prefer to go back on their own.
Your insurance or Medi-Cal card, a list of any medications or medical conditions, and a comfort item if your child has one. Nothing else is needed.
Often, yes. For a very young or anxious child we may keep the first visit to an exam and introduction, then do the cleaning at the next appointment once trust is established.
Usually not. X-rays are taken only when there is a clinical reason, such as teeth that touch and cannot be seen between. Digital X-rays use very low radiation when they are needed.
Keep it light and positive. Read a picture book about visiting the dentist, and avoid words like hurt, shot, or drill even in reassurance. Schedule for a time of day when your child is usually rested.
Every six months for most children. Some need more frequent visits based on cavity risk, diet, or medical history.
Medi-Cal (Denti-Cal) covers routine exams and cleanings for eligible children. We accept Medi-Cal and most major PPO plans, and can verify your benefits before the appointment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Joshua Kohan, DMD — Say Cheese Kids Dental & Orthodontics, Chino, CA.
Last reviewed: 5 August 2026. This page is for general information and is not a substitute for an in-person examination.
Very clean office the staff was amazing. So many neat video games. I would refer Say Cheese Dental to my friends and family.
Priscilla marie VargasThe dentist was very kind and knowledgeable and polite! The staff took the time needed for my 3 boys to feel comfortable and relaxed. We will be here in the next 6.months for there followup and braces!
Brigette NavarroMe encanto el trato del personal todos incluyendo al doctor
Lurdes UrtisMuy amable todo el personal y atentos, respondieron todas mis dudas. Fue una buena opción venir aquí.
Monica MendozaThis was my first visit to Say Cheese Dental, and I was really impressed. The place is super clean, organized, and has a relaxing atmosphere. The staff is kind, patient, and very friendly — they made me feel comfortable from the moment I walked in. I’m happy I chose this office!
LOURDES HERRERAThe staff are Great and explain everything perfectly, they are willing to work on monthly payments with you and they are patiently with you 🙂 would recommend coming by and check them out 🙂
Ivette LopezGreat consultation! The staff was friendly, the orthodontist was knowledgeable and took the time to explain everything clearly. I felt comfortable and confident with the treatment plan. Highly recommend! I will definitely be back!
Natasha HarrisFirst time coming to this kids dental and we had a great experience. Everything was explained so well , will be coming back!
Karen RomeroWe loved it, all very friendly, very professional. The place is very nice, very cozy, tidy and clean, there is parking and easy to get to.
Paulina MaldonadoA positive first visit builds habits and confidence that last for years. Our pediatric dental team in Chino will take the time your child needs.
