Your Child's First Dentist Trip

That first appointment with a dentist can be overwhelming for any child. Even in situations where your baby has been in to see the dental care provider, bringing in a toddler, who is more aware of what is going on, is going to be a challenge. However, there are things you can do ahead of time that provide your child with the reassurance he or she needs. What you should avoid doing is holding off on getting help. You will want to bring your child in to see this provider. Be sure to choose one that is good with children and willing to take the extra time it takes to get your child to be comfortable.

Tips for Making It a Success

How can you make your child's first trip to the dentist one that does not go down as the biggest screaming match there ever was? To do this, you will need to find the right dental care provider first. In fact, do not just look at the dentist but also to the entire staff. They should be kid-oriented and willing to work with these tough little customers. That often means investing more time and patience into the process. Aside from finding the right provider, though, there are a few other things you need to do to ensure that your child gets the right type of treatment and that you are welcomed to come back.

• Be sure to talk to your child about what is going to happen several days before it does. Make it a positive experience. Let them know in a positive manner as if you are preparing for a trip to the zoo.

• Find a few books or videos on a trip to the dental care office. Use these as a way to help your child to learn what is going to happen and why it is important to visit. You can often find these at the library.

• Be sure to introduce your child to what the surroundings are going to be like. Sitting in that big chair can be scary but only if you are not prepared to do so. You may be able to let the child sit on your lap during the visit. Do whatever it takes to keep them calm.

Be sure to answer your child's questions and to engage him or her in the process. Be sure they understand what is going to happen and why as well as what it feels like. By doing this, your child's trip to the dentist can be far more enjoyable than you realize. Once that first trip goes well, all future ones will also go well.