Young children can be unsure or antsy about almost anything new to them. Fix any fears they may have about visiting the dentist by taking these simple steps.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that a child go within six months after the first tooth erupts, which typically is six months after birth, or age 1 at the latest, as tooth decay can begin even at that early age. Regardless of your child’s age, try these actions to lessen his or her anxiety.
Let Your Child Know What to Expect
Show your child why you brush your teeth and have someone else check on what you have done to keep them healthy. Let him or her look at books, online videos and other resources that show how a checkup will occur for him or her.
At Klooster Family Dentistry, our children’s nook with games and books occupies their interest and relaxes them prior to their checkups. When they are finished, we let them select a prize from our treasure chest to thank them. Telling your child about these processes will get him or her excited for a visit.
Do Your Part to Help
Set up the appointment when your child is typically alert and cooperative. Once the date and time arrive, don’t rush your child or do anything out of the ordinary when taking him or her on other visits. Don’t bribe them to go or use the visit as a threat.
Give your dentist as much information related to your child’s dental health to save time during the visit. Let the doctor know what medical conditions your child, as well as if your child is still sucking on a thumb or device.
If your child remains scared and/or uncooperative for the checkup, we can provide sedation with nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to do the procedure. He or she will receive five minutes on oxygen to clear up its effects and return them to normal behavior.
When finished, talk to your child and learn of any concerns and fears they had regarding the checkup so you can mention them to the Dr. Klooster and get them addressed to make future visits better experiences for all concerned.
Ready to schedule your child’s first visit? Schedule an appointment with us today!
Comments 2
For your child’s first dental visit, tell them the Importance of Good Dental Hygiene. You can explain to your child that regular dental visits will keep their teeth healthy & strong. With this they can enjoy the food that they love. Tell them that for a healthy smile dental checkups are important.
Well, prepare your child to go to the dentist’s clinic is very tough because children find fun & joy every time and everywhere. I think these are the perfect tips to prepare your child to go to a dentist’s clinic for their teeth check-ups. Thanks a lot!