How To Make Your Child’s First Dental Visit a Success

If you have a child, you know that every “first” is exciting, from their first word to their first step to their first day at school. One thing that may seem less exciting (at least to your child) but is still crucial to think about is their first dental visit. How your child’s first-ever trip to the dentist’s office goes can have a big impact on how they feel about dental care in the future. Unfortunately, we know that some adults have neglected their oral healthcare for years because of a traumatic experience at the dentist’s office when they were young. Here are some tips to make your child’s first dental visit a big success.

Play Pretend at Home

Before you ever bring your child to a real-life dental office, you can help them get prepared for the visit by playing pretend at home. You can act like the dentist and walk through a version of what will happen (please no actual at-home dental procedures though!). Alternatively, you can play dentist with your child’s dolls and stuffed animals so they get an idea of what a dentist does and the normal steps that occur at a dental office.

Speak in Positive Terms

It’s not going to do your child any favors if you always use negative words when speaking about the dentist or dental care. Avoid saying anything that might make your child nervous or afraid about what’s to come. Kids are always soaking up what we say and do. It’s possible that if you’re not careful about it, any negative experiences you’ve had at the dentist can transfer to them!

Give Them a Tour Beforehand

Another way to make your child’s first dental visit less scary is to introduce them to the dental office beforehand. That way when the time comes for their actual appointment, they’ll already be familiar with the place and the people so it’s one less thing to be concerned about.

First Visits at Pleasanton Children’s Dentistry & Braces

We look forward to seeing you and your child at your first visit to our Pleasanton. Our team loves working with children so you can rest assured that your child will be in good hands. If you’re looking for more tips about your child’s first dental visit, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Pleasanton Children’s Dentistry & Braces. We are here to help make your visit as “pleasant” as possible.

Categorised in: Kid's Dentistry, Oral Health, Our Office

This post was written by Pleasanton Children’s Dentistry & Braces