The time invested in preparing your kids for a trip to the dentist will be well worth the sanity you save! Here are a few simple tips to help you get your kids ready for a visit to the dentist.
Take Your Dentist’s Advice
Personally, I have a terrible fear of everything related to the dental profession. When I got my first job with health benefits, I knew that regular dental check-ups would be one of the ways I could continue to keep my teeth, so I’ve gone twice a year since then.
My dentist happens to be awesome and we’ve worked on my dental fears over the years. When it was time to bring my oldest child to the dentist, he gave me great advice which was the equivalent of “never let them see you sweat.” Only for me, it was “never let them know how afraid you are of the dentist.” My kids can learn the truth several years down the road, when they already have a positive association with the dentist!
Be a Good Example
Kids watch everything we do, and everything we don’t do. If you want your kids to go regularly and cooperatively to the dentist, it will greatly help your case if you go yourself every six months. It’s also vital to have a good attitude not only about going, but about the different activities like getting x-rays and your teeth cleaned. Show your kids the “loot” you get from the dentist – they’ll be excited about a new toothbrush, the toothpaste and the floss they’ll get as a result of their visit!
Explain What Will Happen
Since this will be a new experience for your child, it’s best to have as many conversations as you can. Some of the elements to cover include:
• the dentist chair that tilts back
• the bright light and the sunglasses
• the fact that your child’s mouth needs to be opened for the dentist
• the special toothbrush the dental hygienist will use, as well as the water sprayer and suctioner
Before you take your child to the dentist, ask if the first visit can be an introduction to all of these elements if they don’t already provide this kind of service.
Use Books and Videos
Head to your local library and check out picture books about kids going to the dentist. While you’re there, search for any DVDs that also address this issue in a positive way.
Read the books and watch the DVDs several times in the two weeks before your child’s first dentist visit. This will help your child internalize important information, and young children love repetition.
Special Treat
Usually dentists have their own rewards to reinforce good memories of the visit. My kids love the toothbrushes and toothpaste they get to choose, as well as the pencils and balloons. If your dentist doesn’t offer these treats, make a suggestion and see if he/she would be open to it. You can also take your child to a local store for an inexpensive toy or balloon after this first visit to reinforce your child’s good choices at the dentist.
When it comes to taking small children places, I’ve found that preparation is the key to happiness for all involved, including a first visit to the dentist!
Kelly Wilson is a mom and freelance writer who visits her awesome Dentist in Silverton, Oregon every six months to maintain a fabulous smile.
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