Child's Happy Visit To the Dentist

By Ana M. Arango, DDS

Ana M. Arango, DDS

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Child's Happy Visit To the Dentist

Every parent knows the anxiety and uncertainty of taking a child to the dentist. One thing that is very important is to introduce your children to the dentist with a “happy visit” to the dentist's office once they have full dentition.

We recommend that children begin their routine dental check-ups between the ages of one and two years old. This gives the dentist and parents the opportunity to know the child's teeth and mouth and what needs to be done, now and in the future. Some parents put this off because of the apprehension about how the child will react to the first dental visit.

There are ways to make the experience less stressful for the child and everyone else. Sending a special “first visit” package for the child, including gloves, facemask, toothbrush and their own little “mouth mirror” can do a lot to help them feel prepared. This is a great way for them to become familiar with some of the items they will encounter at their first visit.

Trying to make the first visit a “happy visit” makes the experience a lot different than when the child is not prepared for the visit. Giving your child the opportunity to experience the dental experience, as well as ride the dental chair and watch videos helps to acquaint the child with the surroundings and make them more comfortable.

And, just as important is the end of each visit. You and your dentist's office make a big deal out of the experience, like taking a picture to remember it, and giving a gift or goodie bag with a timer for brushing. All of these preparations and planning can make the child feel good about the experience instead of being fearful of the dentist.

It is recommended that children be seen every six months, to evaluate, not just the health of teeth, but also growth and development.

Child patients get a lot less cavities when preventive recommendations are followed. These include a combination of

Good oral hygiene This includes brushing and rinsing, plus making sure your child doesn't sleep after eating or drinking foods high in sugar.

Good nutrition This is always important for the development of your child's teeth and your dentist can help you understand how good nutrition can affect your child's development.

Fluoride therapy gives your child protection against bacterial infections and cavity formation.

Sealants can be “painted” over the fissures and crevasses in the teeth, especially the rear teeth, to prevent cavities from developing.

Following a good prevention regimen will help to keep your child from getting unnecessary cavities.

So, remember it's always a good idea to find a dentist who will help you maintain your child's good dental health and make your child's first visit to the dentist a happy visit.