Your child's first visit to the dentist

There can be so many frightening things about a dental office to children such as smells, new people, the sounds, and the masks. Then there is the stories that other children or even adults tell young children about the horrible experiences at the dentist that are most of the time very untrue. There are some tips that I am going to share with you about choosing the right dentist for your child, preparing them for their first visit, and what to do if they are having a rather tough time.

Choosing the right dentist. Many times, people take their children with them to their own appointments and this definitely helps with the frequency of seeing the same people and the same office. Also when the dentist knows the history of the parents, it is easier to understand each child in situations such as if they are late getting their teeth in or if the parents have been missing any permanent teeth, it give the dentist areas to watch for or if the parents have worn braces, we may refer them to the orthodontist at an earlier age for interceptive or preventive treatment. Some important things to look for:

• The dentists chair side manner, does he put children at ease?
• The "Tell-Show-Do" Technique, reviewing with your child everything he does before he begins. Many children also like to watch what he does with a hand mirror, this usually helps to put them at ease if they can watch him count their teeth.
• Does the dentist explain the proper cleaning techniques and praise them for doing something right? Several dentists I know have treasure chests that the children can choose from for having a good visit.
• How does the dentist handle your child misbehaving? The dentist may need to take action to prevent injury to your child around the instruments and tools. Calmly and firmly speaking to the child is the 1st approach they should take and if the child needs to be physically restrained, you may need to step in and help.

Preparing your child for their 1st visit:

• Talk to them about it and explain what will happen in a simple manner. DO NOT USE THE WORDS SHOT, NEEDLE, DRILL or anything that will frighten them. We have our own terms here that we use that do not frighten the children.
• If you have had a bad experience, do not relay your fears to your child.
• Talk to your dentist about any worries you or your child may have. Dr. Rick works with our patients and parents to achieve the best visit possible for you and your child.
• Look for books that explain what it is like to go to the dentist. Pictures usually help explain this.
• Never use or threaten going to the dentist as punishment as this will only heighten anxiety and fear in your child.

If your child has had a bad experience, it is important to talk to them about it. If you do not feel comfortable going back to that dentist, find one that you are comfortable with and share your concerns with them up front.