How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Dental Appointment
Preparing your child for their first dental visit can set them up to have a positive relationship with dental care for the rest of their life! A trip to the dentist is a new, and sometimes intimidating and scary experience for children. At Where Smiles Grow, your experience matters to us, and our team knows how to create a welcoming and friendly environment. Follow our top tips for getting your child ready for their first appointment!
Start Early
Your child should have their first dentist appointment by the time their first tooth erupts, or by their first birthday. A great way you can help them get ready for the dentist is to begin a health oral care routine from an early age. Explain to them the importance of taking care of your teeth and gums and how the dentist plays a role in that.
Stay Positive
Your children look up to you for direction on all matters! If you are feeling and speaking positively about their upcoming visit, they will feel the same. Sometimes, children can feel our anxiety or worry, and if we have had a bad experience at the dentist, they might believe they will too. This is very important to keep in mind when talking with them about their upcoming appointment!
Read Books or Watch Videos About Dental Visits
Reading books where characters are enjoying their visit to the dentist can help your child find reassurance and overcome their feelings of anxiety. There are many great children’s books that speak about going to the dentist in a fun and engaging way!
Another great way to help them feel confident is to show them the videos we have on our website! These videos will allow them to see our office and familiarize themselves with a brand-new place. This is also a fun way to introduce them to the concept of the dentist and give them an idea of what to expect. This can alleviate some of their fear of the unknown.
Tell Them About What They Will Experience
Read through our website and watch our videos with your little one to let them know what they can except from their visit, and how our Where Smiles Grow dentists set themselves apart from others! Every time you visit, you can expect a warm welcome from our friendly team members. Before your appointment, play around in our fun, kid-friendly reception area; we have lots of games and plenty of things to do. During their cleaning or checkup, your child will receive a pair of cool glasses to wear, and they can even watch a movie during procedures! Our team will walk them through every step of their appointment. After a great visit, let them know they will receive a goody bag with a toothbrush, floss, and a few special prizes.
Schedule An Appointment with Our Where Smiles Grow Team!
Creating a positive relationship with dentistry can lead to healthy teeth and gums for life! There are many ways to help your child feel comfortable at the dentist, and our Where Smiles Grow team is here to ensure that our patients receive the best care and have the best experience possible. Contact us today to learn more or schedule an appointment!