Bringing your child to their first dentist visit can seem intimidating, especially if you experience dental fear. It might be hard to imagine how to introduce your child to this particular environment, especially since your child’s first visit will likely be at a very young age. Here are four tips to help make preparing your child a bit easier.
1. Make Sure the Atmosphere Is Appealing to a Child
You’ll want to choose a kids’ dentist, or pediatric dentist, to ensure that there will be a welcoming, happy, kid-friendly atmosphere in the office. The waiting room for a kids’ dentist in Orland Park will likely be stocked with toys, books, stuffed animals, and other familiar and fun items that will calm your child, rather than making them feel nervous or frightened about their visit.
2. Start Learning at Home
You can educate your child about the dentist at home, before their first visit. There are plenty of books for kids that can teach them about visiting the dentist and explain exactly what a kids’ dentist will do in terms that children can understand, and make going to the dentist seem like an exciting adventure. You’ll want to stress the importance of healthy teeth, as prevention is key to avoid painful procedures in the future.
3. Stay Positive!
Discuss the dentist in positive terms and avoid mentioning anything negative or making references to pain. If you have reason to believe that your child will be receiving a painful procedure, you might want to discuss sedation with their dentist beforehand, or schedule a pre-visit consultation so the dentist can explain the procedure to you and your child.
4. Ask for Help If You Need It
Don’t talk about the dentist excessively, as this might have the opposite effect and make your child nervous about the visit. You run more of a risk of doing this if you are afraid of the dentist if you have dental fear. Children can be very intuitive, and may pick up on your anxiety! If it’s difficult for you to talk to your child about the dentist in a positive light, you might want to ask another trusted family member to help prepare your child or bring them to their appointment.
When you keep these tips in mind, your child’s first visit will not seem worrisome after all. In Orland Park, a kids’ dentist like Chicago kiDDS Pediatric Dentistry will have the professional training to put you and your child at ease. With the right preparation and the right dentist, your child’s first visit will be a breeze.
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