WHEN IT COMES TO making dental appointments fun for your child our team understands that first impressions can last a lifetime. That’s why we make a special effort to be welcoming and gentle—especially the first time you and your child visit. But we need your help too! Your child’s views about dentistry will be largely determined by what happens at home. Here are some tips to help make your child’s first dental visit—and every subsequent visit—a great experience!

Be Sensitive To The Language You Use

In the beginning, all your child knows about dentistry is what you tell him or her. Be positive, and casual. No need for bribes or over-the-top pep talks. Their visit will be fun!

Don’t Wait Until There’s Pain

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that parents bring their children in by age 1! That may seem early, but starting early allows us to set the pattern, together, for a lifetime of preventative care. Think about it this way… When parents wait until their children have pain to come in, dental visits become associated with pain and with intimidating procedures. It makes it more difficult for us to be the good guys after that.

Have Fun Preparing

Let your child “play dentist” by giving them a mask and a plastic spoon to count your teeth, or read them a book about the dentist. There are lots of cute books at your local library about going to the dentist. You can also teach them about their teeth using many of the fun ideas that we post on our Facebook page.

Prepare Yourself Too

Even the most conscientious parents forget this simple truth—if you’re stressed, your child will likely be stressed too. So request an appointment for a time when you’ll feel relaxed and have time to talk with us about any special concerns you have about your child’s teeth or health.

Questions about your child’s dental visit? Let us know!

You can leave a comment below, or you can always give us a call. Thanks for your trust in our practice. We look forward to your next appointment!