Adult
A child’s first visit to the dentist can be an adventure, filled with new sights, sounds, and experiences. For some kids, this could be a fun outing. For others, it may be a source of apprehension. To ensure that the trip to the dentist is a positive experience, parents need to be well-prepared and ready to ease any anxiety. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to help prepare your child for their first trip to the dentist.
Start Taking Them to the Dentist Early On
The American Dental Association recommends that children should have their first dental visit by their first birthday or within six months after their first tooth appears. Starting early helps children get used to regular dental checkups and promotes good oral health from a young age. Plus, these early visits are often more relaxed and can help to establish trust between your child and their dentist.
Talk to Them About What to Expect
Talk to Them About What to ExpectPreparing your child for their first dental visit starts at home. Explain what the dentist does and why it’s important. Use simple words that your child can understand, explaining that the dentist helps to keep our teeth strong and clean. Avoid using words that might induce fear such as ‘pain’, ‘shot’, or ‘drill’. Children’s books about dentist visits can also be a great aid in illustrating the process and easing any fears.
Keep Your Own Anxiety at Bay
Children are great at picking up on their parents’ emotions. If you’re anxious about dental visits, try not to let it show. Speak positively about the dentist, even if you’re personally not a fan of dental appointments. Your confidence can be reassuring to your child.
Plan Their Appointment for the Right Day & Time
Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is well-rested and non-fussy. A mid-morning slot often works best for young children. Make sure you arrive early to give your child a chance to acclimate to the new environment. A rushed visit can be stressful for both you and your child.
Expect Some Resistance or Crying
Even with the best preparation, understand that a bit of fussing or crying is perfectly normal. Stay calm and remember that our Davie pediatric dentist is very experienced in handling children and helping them overcome their fear of the dentist.
Use Positive Reinforcement
After the visit, praise your child for their bravery and consider providing a small reward such as a sticker or fun activity. This can create a positive association with trips to the dentist and make them feel better about having to go.
Bring Their Comfort Items
If your child has a favorite toy, blanket, stuffed animal, or other item that brings them comfort, bring it with you to the appointment. Having something familiar will ease their anxiety and make them feel more at home until they get used to regular visits.
Schedule a Pediatric Dentist Appointment
If your little one is due for their first appointment, call or submit a form through our website to request an appointment with our Davie pediatric dentist. Our team has tons of experience working with kids of all ages. We work to create a fun environment where kids can relax, feel comfortable, and smile.
July 31, 2023