A Child’s First Visit to the Dentist
Are you nervous about making your child’s first dental appointment? A child’s first visit to the dentist can be nerve-wracking, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple steps, you can help your child have a great first visit. You can help them feel comfortable, confident, and happy. This will stand them in good stead for the rest of their childhood and beyond. Here are five simple tips for preparing your child for their first visit.
1. Tell Plenty of Stories
Reading to your child is a great way to prepare them for their first dental visit. There are plenty of picture books with vivid illustrations and designs that are sure to catch your child’s attention. There are many bedtime stories about going to the dentist, or you could make up your own stories using your child’s favorite characters. Your child will soon think of their first dental visit as a fun experience to get a chance to ride in the dentist’s ‘magic’ chair. Try to read to your child as much as possible and encourage them to think of their dental trip as a big adventure.
2. Practice Brushing While Your Child is Lying Down
The one thing that makes most children uneasy on their first dental visit is the sensation of lying on their backs while a stranger looks into their mouths. This is the part of the trip that is most likely to upset them. Fortunately, it is easy to prepare for. Use your child’s baby toothbrush and practice brushing their teeth while they lie down. Use a dry brush to minimize the chance of them choking. By the time their first tooth appears, they’ll be ready to go!
3. Make a Pre-visit
It’s essential to check that the dental service you choose for your child has the correct provisions in place. You may like to make a ‘pre-visit’ which is where you visit before you take your child. You don’t have to choose a pediatric dentist; many general dental practices accommodate children just as well. Check for a comfortable atmosphere with a welcoming staff that will put your child at ease and makes their first visit a breeze.
4. Book as Soon as Possible
Schedule your child’s first dental appointment as soon as their first tooth appears, or they turn six months old – whichever comes first. This initial visit is more of a check-up than anything else and will be fun. The dentist will check your child’s gums and put them at ease. It will help them to become comfortable with the idea of visiting and excited about going back.
5. Focus on The Reward
If your child is nervous about their first visit to the dentist, try to distract them by offering them a bonus or specialized experience like a trip to the park. You might let them choose a new toothbrush and toothpaste after they visit to get them excited about their next trip. Giving them ‘ownership’ over how their brush looks is very important. It will help them take all tips that the dentist gives them, like the correct brushing techniques.
Final Thoughts
Those are five tips for preparing your child for their first trip to the dentist. They should make the experience fun, enjoyable, and hassle-free.
Looking for a dentist for your child for their first visit to the dentist where there is a comfortable atmosphere with a warm welcoming staff? Contact Suburban Essex Dental. The dental office is located in West Orange, NJ in Essex County.
The past eight years, New Jersey Monthly has voted Dr. Paul Feldman one of the Top Dentists in the State of NJ.
