This section explains what you can expect when your child comes for their first dental appointment..
All of our new patients are assessed at one of our consultant/specialist led clinics. These are usually held every day, Monday-Friday.
Changing or cancelling your appointment
Please tell us as soon as possible so we can offer your appointment to another patient.
Before your appointment
Please complete the dental medical history form (PDF 242Kb) and bring it with you to your appointment. If you are unable to print the form you will be given a copy to fill in when you arrive.
Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment time. If you are more than 10 minutes late for your appointment, we may not be able to see you.
We make every effort to see you on time. For your first visit, please allow up to three hours for your appointment.
At your appointment
Investigations
Our new patient clinics allow you to have a consultation with a specialist or consultant in children's dentistry.
If your child needs further investigations, these will be discussed with you if necessary. Your child may need for example:
- x-rays
- clinical photographs
- blood tests.
Some of these may be carried out on the same day as your appointment, but you may need an appointment in another department for other tests.
We may also ask you to have some tests before coming to the clinic for a review appointment.
After your appointment
Most patients receive a diagnosis (and treatment options will also be discussed) on the day of their appointment. Your child may be offered treatment in the department, and future appointments will be arranged for this.
General anaesthetic treatment
If your child requires care to be provided under general anaesthetic takes place on a different day to your appointment.
Day case operations under general anaesthetic take place at:
Dental Day Case Unit
Floor 23, Tower Wing
Guy’s Hospital
Great Maze Pond
London SE1 9RT
An alternative in-patient general anaesthetic service for children with medical conditions is also run at Evelina London Children’s Hospital.
Emergency dental service
Our dental department and King's College Hospital provide a walk-in emergency service for children with dental emergencies. Find out more.