How Do I Prepare My Child For Their First Dental Appointment?

Going to the dentist for the first time is a landmark in your child’s life. Short Pump Dental is dedicated to creating an environment where your child feels comfortable - and even excited - for teeth cleanings and all their pediatric dental treatments.

What Should My Child Expect From Their First Dental Appointment?

Our pediatric dentists, Dr. Haueis and Dr. Christofakis, believe that your child’s first visit to the dentist should be fun and stress-free. When you walk through our doors, your child can play with toys and books in our waiting area. For your child’s first appointment, we will focus on getting them acquainted with the people and the process. If you think your child will need some time to adjust, we can make the first appointment a “meet and greet,” and we will let your child view the rooms, equipment, and practice sitting in the chair. You can walk your child through the office beforehand by viewing our office tour online.

How Do I Help My Child Overcome Their Fear of The Dentist?

Many children (and adults) come to fear the dentist from watching shows, movies, or even just overhearing others’ conversations. It’s important to help your children think about the dentist in a positive way. There are several ways to help your child feel more comfortable with their pediatric dentist and teeth cleanings in general. Examples include the following…

• Visit your pediatric dentist at a young age
• If your child begins having a fun, positive experience with their kids’ dentistry at a young age, their treatments and appointments will more easily become part of their routine. Bring your child in to meet our dentists as soon as possible after their first tooth emerges.
• Bring your child to one of your dentist appointments
• Let them see you in the chair, smiling and chatting with the dentist.
• Make sure you and those around you talk positively about your trips to the dentist
• Children easily detect when something should be avoided. You can help your child be excited for their turn to visit their kids’ dentist by talking about your appointments with a smile.

How Can I Prepare My Child For Dental Work?

The most important thing you can do to prepare your child for tooth cleanings and dental work is to establish a regular oral hygiene routine for your child. Consistent brushing and flossing will help your child’s teeth stay healthy, which means their dental appointment will go more quickly and smoothly. Additionally, you can help them get used to someone else working in their mouth by doing “tooth checks,” or sometimes helping them reach the difficult places in their mouth with their toothbrush or floss. A healthy oral hygiene routine can help us smoothly transition your child into tooth cleanings and dental work, which we will make as enjoyable and relaxing as possible!

Visit Your Pediatric Dentist In Short Pump Today!

Dental care is a lifelong process, so let’s make sure your child starts out on the right foot. With our friendly staff and quality care, we are dedicated to creating a positive experience for you and your child. For more information about teeth cleanings or other pediatric dental treatments, contact our office. Whether it’s your child’s or your own first visit, we look forward to working with your family!