Preparing Your Child For A Dental Visit

Going to the dentist for the very first time can be a scary experience for your child. They don’t know what to expect and they are being treated by strangers. How you talk about the dental visit and the attitude you have will go a long way in determining whether or not the experience is pleasant for your child. Below are just a few ways that you can prepare your child for his or her visit.

Start Oral Care Early

When the first association a child has with dental care is having multiple cavities filled or having a tooth extracted, there is a good chance that subsequent visits will be stressful. Start your child’s dental care before problems develop. If your child associates the dentist with simple procedures such as cleaning you are off to a very good start.

Read Books or Watch Videos

There are many excellent books and videos available to help your child understand what will happen once they are at the dentist’s office. Visit the library or talk with your dentist’s office for recommendations on materials that are both entertaining and educational.

Be Matter of Fact

As any parent will tell you, children often develop attitudes based on how their parents behave. When you talk about the dental visit remain calm and matter of fact. Treat the visit to the dentist as a routine part of life just as a visit to the pediatrician is.

Choose Your Words Carefully

Avoid using words and phrases that are associated with negative dental experiences. Terms like hurt, pain, drill or pull may frighten your child. Try not to use statements like “the doctor won’t hurt you” or “there is no reason to be scared.” Your child may not even think to be afraid until you mention it.

Set a Good Example

If good dental hygiene is a part of the family routine then your child is much less likely to develop a fear of the dentist. If appropriate, bring your child along to your next dental cleaning and introduce them to the dental staff. If you will not be using the same dentist for your child’s care consider visiting the office prior to your child’s appointment.

Your child’s visit to the dentist does not have to be an unpleasant experience. To learn more about how you can help your child get off to a good dental hygiene start, contact Dr. Bender to set up a consultation.

To learn more about your child's first dental visit click here
To learn more about toothbrushing and flossing for children click here