Tips to Prepare Your Child for the First Dental Appointment

Tips to Prepare Your Child for the First Dental Appointment

June 21, 2016 / in kids dentist / by FWCD-Admin
Doctor

Ideally, your child should have his or her first dental appointment by the first birthday. This will help acclimate a child to the process. Success at the dentist’s office begins with the type of dentist you choose.

When the first professional that your child interacts with is a kid’s dentist, your child will receive specialized care that considers the unique needs of the pediatric patient. They’ll use techniques and terminology that are targeted to a child’s experience and understanding. The dentist will show the child any instruments that will be used during the appointment and demonstrate how they are used, as well.

A kid’s dentist also will feature pint-sized amenities, like chairs, tables and aprons. This will make the child feel more comfortable in the environment and make it less frightening for them. You and your child are welcome to tour our office before the appointment to establish some familiarity.
There are steps that you can take as a parent to make sure that the experience is a positive one for your child. Stay in the room while the dentist is examining your child, so that you can be there to comfort him or her if necessary.

As children get older and enter toddlerhood, they may express some reluctance about going to the dentist, even if it is a kid’s dentist. If this happens, you can calm any fears that they may have by being open and honest with them about the process. If you have any dental fears of your own, it’s best to get those under control before approaching the subject with your child.

Take care to reassure your child that the dentist will take good care of them and explain clearly what they can expect from the appointment, making sure not to make it sound too scary. Remember, a positive early relationship with the dentist can set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health. If you have any specific questions or concerns about your child’s dental appointment, feel free to call our office at Fort Worth Children’s Dentistry and speak to one of our experienced professionals for their advice.