5 Ways to Prepare your child for a Dental Visit

For children, going to the dentist can be a little intimidating, whether it’s their first or fifth visit. The sights, smells, instruments, and people of the clinic can feel overwhelming. As a parent, you can help make this a positive, maybe even fun, experience with your child. Below are five easy and thoughtful ways to help prepare your child to go into the dental clinic with confidence and ease.

Tips to Prepare Your Child For a Dental Visit

1. Talk About the Process Early

Talk to your child about teeth and the role of the dentist early, months before the appointment. Explain to them why we have to keep our teeth clean and how dentists help us keep them clean. The tone should be lighthearted and friendly. You can introduce your child with good words like the dentist is going to count your teeth and make them shiny and strong. You can also role-play at home with a toothbrush in front of a mirror so that they can get a feel for what happens at a check-up.

2. Choose the Right Dentists

Not all dentists deal with the same patients, particularly when it comes to children. Seek out a pediatric dentist who specialises in children. These offices are generally fun, colourful, happy places that help children feel relaxed. Pediatric dentists have been trained in communicating with children in a calm, friendly manner, and they make a good first choice, especially in the case of future dental visits that your child will want to attend.

3. Describe What They Can Expect

Kids do much better when they can visualise what they are going to participate in. Many kids are afraid of the unknown. Take some time to talk through the dentist’s office and the basic steps that will occur during the appointment. For example, you can reassure them that they will take a look at your teeth, maybe count them and clean them with a special brush. Consider showing them a few images or even a video on what a dental visit is like, so they don’t have to guess what it’s going to be like.

4. Use Dental-Themed Books & TV Shows

There are many books and shows about dental visits that are fun, entertaining and designed for kids when they go to the dentist. Reading or watching that together can normalise the experience and give your child a relatable character who has had a similar experience. This also creates an opportunity for discussion and questions in a low-pressure environment.

5. Bring a Comfort Item or Soft Toy along

A comfort object can be an amazing source of support when navigating emotions with new experiences. If it feels like the right fit for your child, allow your child to bring their favourite stuffed animal or soft toy to the appointment. It can provide a sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar space.

Conclusion

Getting your child ready for a dental experience doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of imagination, patience, and some appropriate tools, you can create positive memories rather than negative memories. Ultimately, good dental habits start with a good first experience. If you think of early exposure, the right professionals, and something fun and comforting, it will help your child take their first step towards having a lifetime of healthy smiles. If you are thinking of the best dental experts for your children, consider visiting Thyme Dental Clinic.