Your child’s first dentist visit can run smoothly with a little preparation. Seeing a dentist can be a scary experience for many children (and adults too!), but we have tips to ease that discomfort.
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ToggleWhen Should Baby and Toddler’s See the Dentist?
It is recommended to visit the dentist’s office during their first year or when their first tooth appears. Regular visits to the dentist are essential to maintain and improve the oral health of your child’s teeth.
Speak Positively About Your Own Experience with the Dentist
Be mindful of how you speak of your visits to the dentist around your children. Maintain a positive attitude about visiting the dentist and the value of having routine dental care and preventing dental issues.
Studies have shown that parents can pass on their dental anxiety to their children. If you have dental anxiety, try not to show it to your kids. They are looking to you for guidance on how to respond to new situations they are unfamiliar with.
Read Book or Watch Videos About Their Favourite Characters Visiting the Dentist
Find books or videos created for children about visiting the dentist. There are lots of books or videos that tell a happy story about a dental visit and this can help to ease your child’s anxiety. When they see their favourite characters going to the dentist, it makes it a normal experience for them.
Tell Them About Visiting the Dentist
Talk to them about what to expect when they go to see the dentist, but not too far in advance. With too much time to anticipate the appointment, they may spend a lot of time thinking about it. Let them know the day before or the morning of that a dentist will be looking at their teeth and inside their mouth to make sure they are healthy.
When To Schedule Their First Dental Visit
Schedule visits for a time that will work for your child. You know your child best and when they are likely to be tired or cranky is not the best time for a dental appointment. After they’ve eaten and had a nap often works well.
Bring Some Comfort For Their First Dentist Visit
Bring along their favourite blanket or toy to comfort them. This can help them to settle in to the dental exam and give them something to hold on to during their dental exam.
For Parents
Try to come a little early to fill out any forms. Be prepared to share your child’s health history and any medications they are taking. Write down any questions you have for Dr. Beeram and bring them with you. The main reasons to take your child to the dentist are to:
- Find out if the cleaning you do at home is working
- Allow Dr. Beeram to identity and fix any problems
- Teach your children that going to the dentist can help prevent problems
At your child’s first dental visit Dr. Beeram will examine your child’s teeth and gums. He will make sure your child’s oral hygiene is on track and look at any baby teeth coming in. Dental x rays are not generally taken for baby’s first dentist appointment, but Dr. Beeram may recommend your child see the dental hygienist for teeth cleaning.
Beach Grove Dental Tsawwassen is a family clinic providing the perfect environment for your children to see you on your annual dental visit in the same place they will have theirs. Book an appointment today for your child to have their first dentist visit.