How to Ease Your Child Into Going to the Dentist

Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dental and Orthodontics

www.adelbergpediatricdental.com

We all know how scary it could be for children to take a trip to the dentist. For that reason, it is important to ease your child into dental visits. After all, there are unknown noises and objects, a stranger poking around inside their mouths, cold metal instruments and more.

Looking for tips on how to keep your child calm? See below for 8 tips from Parents Magazine to help your child overcome their fear of the dentist:

1. Start Young - Baby's first dental visit should happen by their 1st birthday (or when the first tooth is visible). This will provide your child with a 'dental home' where they can be comfortable
2. Keep It Simple - Try not to include too many details when preparing for a visit. You may want to avoid saying 'everything will be fine' in case a treatment is needed. Then the child might lose trust in both the dentist and you
3. Watch Your Words - Avoid using words that can scare children (hurt, pain, shot). The dental staff will introduce their own vocabulary to children to help get them through difficult situations
4. Consider a Pretend Visit - Have a pretend visit in your own home, where you are the dentist. Get your child familiar with the routine before you go. Picture books with detailed illustrations and easy language is a huge help too
5. Do Not Try To Relate - Avoid taking children to an adult office, it can give the wrong impression. Pediatric dental offices are kid friendly, with games, fun photos, and movies kids can enjoy
6. Prepare For Some Fussing - It's normal for little ones to be fussy. Pediatric dentists are well versed in these situations. Let the dentist and their staff guide you
7. Avoid Bribery - You don't want to promise your child a lollipop for not fussing or crying. That may make your child think something bad will happen if they should be worried about fussing or crying. Not to mention it sends the wrong message after the dentist talks about healthy teeth and avoiding sweets. Encouragement for good behavior is a better way to go
8. Emphasize The Importance Of Good Oral Hygiene - Teach your child that dentist visits are a necessity, not a choice, and that the dentist will take care of their teeth so they stay strong and healthy

In addition to the above, make sure you find the right pediatric dentist for your child. At Adelberg and Montalvan we are well prepared for a child's first dental visit. For more information, check us out on the web or our Facebook page. We hope to see you soon!