How to Prepare Your Child For Their First Dental Visit
It’s a well-known fact: the earlier children start visiting the dentist, the more likely they are to avoid dental problems in the future. According to the Canadian Dental Association, children should see a dentist shortly after their first birthday, when their little pearly whites start coming in.
At Tache Dental Centre—Winnipeg’s trusted team of family dentists—we know that a child’s first dental visit can be an overwhelming experience, which is why we take considerable care to ensure your little one feels safe and comfortable while sitting in the dentist’s chair. However, as a parent, there are several things you can do to prepare your child for their first visit. Here are our top four tips:
1. Introduce your child to the world of dentistry. It’s never too early to start teaching your children about the importance of good oral hygiene. Take the time to explain to your little one why teeth cleaning is necessary. There
are many children’s books and online programs available to help educate toddlers on the subject. Treat the upcoming appointment as something simple, routine andpositive so that your child knows not to fear.
2. Establish good oral health habits at home. Talking to your child about good oral hygiene practices is one thing, but showing them what’s involved is another. You should regularly brush and examine your child’s teeth as soon as they start erupting. This way, they’ll feel more comfortable having their teeth checked by a professional dentist when the time comes.
3. Visit the dental clinic before the scheduled appointment. If possible, bring your kid with you to your own dentist appointment so they know what to expect when it’s their turn to sit in the dentist’s chair. New environments can be scary, so it helps to familiarize them with the facility and staff ahead of time. What’s more, if they see that you’re not afraid, they’ll be less inclined to panic when their time comes around.
4. Bring along a comfort item. If your child has a favourite blankie or stuffed teddy bear, feel free to bring it along for moral support. Strange instruments, loud noises and new faces can upset even the bravest of toddlers, so it’s important to try to make the experience as pleasant and stress-free as possible.
Choose a Dental Office You Can Trust
Baby teeth are more susceptible to decay than adult teeth, so early intervention is critical to ensure optimal oral health throughout childhood. As parents, you’ll want to find a dentist you can trust to see to all of your child’s dental needs. Tache Dental Centre in Winnipeg offers a wide range of professional dental services for patients of all ages, from regular teeth cleaning to more complex dental procedures. Our team of caring, compassionate and experienced dental experts is committed to providing a safe, kid-friendly environment.
There’s no denying that the dentist’s office can be a scary place for children, but with careful preparation, their first visit to the reclining chair can actually be fun! Contact us to schedule your child’s first appointment.
We look forward to your visit!
