Preventing Tooth Decay To Maintain Healthy Teeth

3 Things You Can Do To Make Your Child Feel More Comfortable About Seeing The Dentist

Is your child almost old enough to see a dentist for the first time? The experience can feel overwhelming and intimidating for young kids who don't have any experience with dentist's chairs and metal dental tools. Here are a few things you can do to make sure that your little one feels comfortable about seeing their dentist for the first time.

1. Take Them To Your Appointments

Before it comes time for your child to see their dentist for the first time, consider taking them to a few of your own dental appointments so they can see for themselves what's involved and learn what they can expect when going in for their first check up. Make a point to ask your dentist questions that might help explain what's happening during your visit so your child understands the check up process and even the tools that are used by the dentist.

Let your little one ask their own questions when appropriate. If they're curious what a tool in the dentist's office does even if it won't be used during your check-up, there's no reason why the dentist can't explain what it does. It's a good idea to let your dentist know ahead of time that you'll be bringing your child along for your checkup and why so they can prepare themselves to support you as necessary when you show up for your appointment.

2. Schedule a Personal Consultation

Another effective way to help your child feel comfortable with seeing their new dentist is to schedule a personal consultation with the dentist before scheduling their first actual check-up. This will give you and your little one a chance to meet the dentist in person and to have specific questions and concerns addressed before they head in for their first official dental appointment.

The dentist can show your child the chair they'll be sitting in during their first check-up, and walk them through the process of what will happen during the check-up so that there won't be any surprises. When you take your child in for their first dental check-up, they will already be familiar with the surroundings, and they should feel less intimidated because they will already have an idea of what to expect throughout the check-up process.

3. Make Appointment Day a Fun Experience

Help ensure that your child's first dental appointment day is a fun experience, so they look forward to seeing the dentist again in the future. Before their appointment, spend some time playing in the park to set the tone for the day. After the appointment, enjoy a healthy lunch and then a movie to keep the fun theme going until bedtime. Your child is sure to correlate the fun day with seeing the dentist and actually enjoy their appointments as they age and their dental needs change.

Contact your local kids' dentistry office today to learn more. 


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