The dentist’s office can be a scary place for children. With loud noises, facemasks and unfamiliar tools, children may get scared or uncomfortable. With a little help on your end, you can help them enjoy their experience. Making your child’s first dental appointment as pleasant as possible will help him or her view the dentist Carrollton Texas positively in the future. Here are six steps to prepare your kiddo for the first exam.
1. Schedule Wisely
Book a morning appointment when children are most likely to be alert, awake and cooperative. This lessens the chance of them being cranky due to hunger or fatigue and helps them remember the experience when they are most likely to be in a good mood.
2. Read a Story
Read a book about a dental check-up so children know what to expect. Encourage them to ask questions about anything they do not understand and answer them in general terms. Explain how everyone in the family visits the dentist and now it is their turn to go.
3. Tour Virtually
Access the office’s website and show your child what the office, dentist and exam rooms look like. Point out that the large machines are helpful tools the doctor uses to keep each patient’s teeth and gums healthy. Share any positive experiences you or your child’s siblings have had with this dentist in the past.
4. Role-Play
In the days before the appointment, do a practice run by asking children to sit in a chair without fidgeting and open their mouth wide. Encourage them to play dentist with you, a sibling or a favorite stuffed animal acting as the patient. When the real appointment happens, they will not be shocked or surprised by what will happen while they are there.
5. Stay Calm
Stay calm on the day of the exam and talk positively about what is to come. Bring along a favorite toy or book to keep your kiddo occupied in the waiting room. The presence of a friend or sibling who has already been through the experience may help eliminate any last-minute anxiety as well.
6. Congratulate
No matter how the appointment turned out, praise your son and daughter for doing something scary and new. Perhaps buy a small toy or trinket that can help your child remember the experience and the reward it brought. Do not forget to encourage them the next time they go.
Taking these proactive steps to prepare your child for the first dental visit will help him or her handle this new experience with ease and make future check-ups easier.
