Going to the dentist for kids for the first time can be challenging.
While toddlers might not be as excited about going to the dentist as they are when they go to the mall, the park or anywhere else, it is possible to lessen the anxiety. Toddlers at the dentist for the first time should have a pleasant and memorable experience. As this is a significant milestone in their lives, proper preparation is needed.
Advanced Dental Group can help prepare your child to go to the dentist. Discover when to schedule your toddlers’ first appointment, as well as tips for introducing them. A good experience leaves an impression for years to come.
When Should Kids Go to the Dentist?
When should a child start going to the dentist?
Stanford Children’s Health recommends that your child’s first visit to the dentist should be made when he/she is one year old, or six months after his/her first tooth emerges. The first visit may last for 30 to 45 minutes, involving a complete dental exam and gentle teeth cleaning.
The pediatric dentist polishes your kid’s teeth and removes stains, plaque, and tartar during the visit. Your dentist also demonstrates the proper brushing and flossing techniques.
If there’s not much to examine, your dentist will give you another schedule after three or six months. Follow the dentist’s schedule to keep your child’s dental progress in check.
How to Introduce Your Kid to the Pediatric Dentist
Bringing your toddler to an unknown environment may lead to bouts of crying and tantrums. As a parent, you want your child’s first pediatric dentist appointment to be as pleasant and memorable as possible.
Here are some practical tips for introducing your kid to a dentist:
1. Find a good pediatric dentist.
If you want to know more about a pediatric dentist in your area, head online. Read a mix of reviews from other parents.
Make sure he/she also has the experience you can rely on. Did he/she specialize in treating kids? If yes, for how long already?
2. Set a good example.
Your child will likely feel the same way about dentists as you do. Don’t tell your child if you have dental anxiety. It will help if you keep your dental talks positive. Doing this prepares your child well for his/her pediatric dentist first visit.
3. Start dental appointments early.
The earlier your child sees a dentist, the better he/she will be in the long run. Your child’s first trip to the dentist is the most important. He/she will realize that dentists are not scary people the more often he/she visits them.
Don’t lose hope if your first attempt doesn’t go as planned. Let your kid adjust. Talk to him/her in a calm manner. Once he/she is ready, schedule another appointment with the dentist.
4. Make sure your child is well-rested.
You know what happens when kids aren’t getting enough sleep or hungry. Make sure your child gets enough sleep before you go to the dentist.
5. Avoid using negative words.
As a parent, you should only have positive things to say about a dentist. Avoid using words that are associated with pain or discomfort to make a positive impression on dental visits.
6. Don’t promise rewards after the first toddler dentist visit.
You don’t have to bribe your child to go to the dentist. Giving rewards sends the wrong message to your child. Your child may perceive dental visits as a chore.
7. Bring a comfort object.
The introduction of a dentist can be made easier if your child brings a comfort object. It may be a small or large toy, a blanket, or a stuffed animal. However, don’t show it to your child unless he/she asks for it. If your child can go to the dentist without his/her comfort object, the next dental visits will be easier for you and your kid.
8. Stay with them.
Going to the dentist for kids is a big step. It’s important to make them feel safe in the dentist’s office. Pay attention to them while you wait. Make sure your kid always sees where you are.
If they lose sight of you, they might panic. Show them that you’re calm and happy, so they will not see the dentist’s office as a threat.
9. Answer your child’s questions about the dentist.
One effective way to help children process their dental anxiety is by answering their questions. If they ask about the process or what happens at the dentist’s office, walk them through it.
Keep your answers short and simple. To avoid overwhelming them, don’t use big words.
10. Practice good dental hygiene together.
Make sure your child is prepared for his/her first pediatric dentist appointment by practicing good oral hygiene together. Brush your teeth at the same time, and teach them the correct techniques. Tell him/her the importance of taking care of teeth at a young age.
Toddlers at the Dentist: Start Them Young
When to take kids to dentist? Advanced Dental Group will guide you through one of the most important milestones in your child’s life.
Teach your kids about the responsibility of keeping their teeth and mouths clean to prepare them well for the first dental appointment. Doing everything right the first time will help your kid achieve optimal dental health from infancy to adulthood.
When should you take your child to the dentist?
Advanced Dental Group’s network of licensed pediatric dentists in St. Petersburg, FL, has the answers and makes every dental visit pleasant and memorable for your child. We would be more than happy to help you find a kid-friendly dentist in your area. Call us today!
