Going to the dentist twice a year is essential to your child’s overall health and well being. Routine pediatric dental appointments are essential for cavity, tooth decay, and gum disease prevention as well as keep your child’s smile looking happy and healthy. While going to the dentist certainly isn’t the same as going to the movies or the zoo, as a parent, you can make going to the dentist more enjoyable for your child with a few simple tips and tricks.
Getting Your Child To Like Going To The Dentist
- Schedule As Soon As Possible. Scheduling your child’s first dentist appointment should happen sooner than you think. In fact, we highly recommend scheduling pediatric dental appointments for your child as young as 6 months old. The sooner you introduce your child to going to the dentist, the easier it will be for them to adjust to the concept of having to go on a routine basis. These initial visits when your child is 12 months or younger won’t be long, but it is a great opportunity to get your child acquainted to the pediatric dentist.
- Make The First Visit Positive. Whether your child is 12 months or 5 years old and going to the dentist for the first time, it’s important to make sure that your dentist appointment is a happy one. In fact, we highly recommend that you schedule your appointment with your child so that they can see how a routine dental appointment is conducted. At All Pro Dental, we will let your child into the room with you so that they can be with you as well as see the cleaning procedure. Our hygienists will also provide your child with books, games and other activities in the waiting room to ensure that they are happy and calm.
- Read or Role-Play. Before you even set foot in the dentist office, it can be beneficial to read or role-play going to the dentist a few days in advance. Get your child used to the word dentist; make sure they understand what a dentist’s role is and how they are going to help your child improve their health. Reading books related to dental health as well as playing dentist and patient can help your child better visualize what the experience will be when it is time for the appointment.
- Don’t Talk About Your Past Experiences. Whatever you do — don’t mention to your child anything regarding negative past dental experiences. Even though you may be terrified of the dentist, be sure to not let this fear show as children are very impressionable and can pick up on the slightest discomforts. It’s time to put your best foot forward when talking to your child about routine dental cleanings, and don’t forget that purchasing a reward after the cleaning is done (such as a toy) can help make the appointment more tolerable for children who are intimidated by dental appointments.
- See A Pediatric Dentist. Pediatric dentists specialize in taking care of the oral health needs of children, toddlers, and babies of all ages. Children’s dentists can help put both you and your child at ease as they are specifically trained to detect issues related to developing teeth, gums, and bone structure. Issues such as childhood cavities and tooth decay can be detected and treated early with the help of a pediatric dentist. These specialists will also work with you (the parent or guardian) to make sure that good oral hygiene habits are adopted while at home.
If there is any tip to take away from this list, it is to ensure that you stay positive and shine going to the dentist office in a positive light. Don’t forget to do plenty of online research or ask around for recommendations from friends, family or coworkers. At All Pro Dental, our pediatric dentist is known for being charismatic, friendly, approachable, and most of all great with kids. Schedule an appointment for your child online today.
