How you can help your child make the dentist a pleasant experience
From a child’s point of view, a dentist’s office can be a scary place considering a stranger is poking metal objects in their mouth. Going to the dentist at a young age can be anxiety inducing, and even some adults don’t favor getting a routine cleaning. But as we all know, visiting the dentist is vital for a healthy mouth and a great way to promote oral hygiene habits. There are several strategies you can practice with your child to ease their fear of the dentist.
Start Their Visits Early
Having your child see the dentist at a young age will make it a normal activity for them. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, parents should schedule their little one’s first appointment when their first tooth appears or by their first birthday. Starting early helps detect any potential problems and decreases the chances of any extensive dental procedures. It is important from a young age that you child sees you regularly going to the dentist, so set a good example for them!
Play Pretend Dentist
Sitting down with your child and telling them what to expect out of their first appointment is a great way to calm their nerves. Role play dentist with them and make some fun out of cleaning their teeth. All you need is a tooth brush and a small hand mirror. Start by counting your child’s teeth as the brush over them. They can even count your teeth and if you have fillings, you can show them the importance of daily brushing.
Avoid Bribery
Persuading your child to goto the dentist by giving them a reward will only reinforce the idea that getting a check up is a scary event. Tell them that visiting the dentist is a normal activity and that they will end up with a healthy smile. It is okay to take your child for a reward after their appointment occasionally, but don’t make it a big deal about it, instead surprise them.
Oral Care from Catonsville Dental Care
Whether you want to whiten your teeth, straighten your teeth or have a wisdom tooth extracted Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and commitment to comfort, safety and relaxation you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, Google+ and YouTube.