A healthy oral care routine and regular dental visits are essential for your child’s oral health. In fact, the quality of your child’s oral health in their early years has a direct impact on their long-term oral health. This is why it is important to foster good habits when your children are younger. Some children may have anxiety about the dentist or be uninterested. Below you will find how to make a dental visit easier for kids.
How to make a dental visit easier for kids
Sometimes children can feel a lot of emotions. Helping your child manage their emotions is key. This is especially true when it comes to the dentist. There are a number of ways to help your child prepare for their next dental visit.
Start Early:
Starting early on is key to ensuring your child has a healthy relationship with the dentist. Dentists recommend a checkup by no later than when your child turns one. This is a great time to schedule an appointment as it can help familiarize your child with the dentist. It can also help you learn how to navigate the oral care routine of a small child.
Positive Reinforcement:
Kids can easily adapt to new environments. Part of the process is helping them feel safe and comfortable. Positive reinforcement is a great way to help your child build confidence before and at their dental appointment. One of the best ways to do this is to have a positive attitude about the dentist. You can talk about all of the benefits of healthy teeth. You can also give them something to look forward to after. Head to the park or a movie afterward to celebrate the victory. Finding ways to help your child associate the dentist with something positive is key.
Play Pretend:
Play pretend in an age-appropriate way before the dentist. You can get a fun toy dentist kit and let your child familiarize themself with it. Engage with them and play dentist. You can start by letting them take the lead. Then, talk them through each of the tools in the dentist kit. Give them a simple idea of how things will go during their appointment. This can help them feel so much more comfortable at their actual dental appointment.
Provide Information:
As with playing pretend, provide your child with age-appropriate information about how their dental appointment will go. Let them know everything from the check-in process to going home. This can help them understand each of the next steps during the appointment. Be sure to let them know that some things may come up that they don’t expect. This can happen as each patient is different. However, you can provide reassurance that you will be at the appointment and supporting them every step of the way.
Safety Signal:
Giving your child a safety signal they can use is a great way to have a good dental visit. This can include things like a hand squeeze or gesture. This can allow your child to communicate to you without having to say they are scared. Helping your child feel safe and supported is key.
Kids Dentist:
One of the most critical factors in ensuring your child has a smooth dental visit is the dentist you choose. Finding a kid friendly dentist that understands the unique complexities of children is key. Do your research, read online reviews, and check out the office beforehand. Having a dentist that fosters positivity and comfort for your child is priceless. It can truly build a solid foundation that can ensure their long-term oral health.