For kids, a visit to the dentist is a dreaded experience especially if it is their first time. If you want the cooperation of your little one when it comes to dental visits you will need to adapt and be more conscientious about selecting the right dentist first. First impressions last especially for a child. One thing you do not want them to have is a traumatic experience with someone that is taking care of their health. Here are some important tips on how to ease your little one’s dental worries.
Find A Good Dentist for Kids
Look for a dentist that you feel comfortable with and then schedule an appointment with him or her. When it comes to dental visits most are really checkups. It is sad that a child can have a traumatic experience with a dentist that can make him remember it for the rest of his life. A reputable dental clinic in Robbinsdale MN is what you should be looking for. Before booking an appointment check out any reviews a particular dentist you’re interested in has over the Internet. Leave your child with a sitter or while he is at school you can pay a visit to each of your potential candidates. Chances are you will be able to see right away if your child will enjoy being in that clinic or might throw a tantrum the moment you walk into the door. Do not be afraid to speak to the receptionist, the hygienist and the dentist too. Ask how he approaches kids. If he is not able to convince you chances are he wont be able to convince your child either.
Child Friendly
The clinic should be child friendly. Rooms might be decorated with bright colors and filled with animal or fun designs. The waiting room should have a number of toys to play with. There might even be some activity tables or video game consoles for kids to use while waiting for their appointment. A fun and relaxing environment can help ease a child’s anxiety when visiting a dentist. If they are relaxed then they will be patient and entertained while waiting for their turn.
Setting Expectations
It is important that you talk to your child regarding what will happen during the dental appointment regardless if it is a simple checkup or a more complicated dental procedure. Be receptive to your child’s fears. Never lie about what can happen, instead focus on ways to describe to him in easy-to-understand terms and language that is comforting to him. If your child is visual, sit down together and look at images of pediatric dental offices. Have him take a look at a dental chair, overhead lights and some of the usual equipment that they use. Consider giving positive behavior reinforcement like a reward following good behavior. Discuss what this reward will be so they can have something to be excited about once the session is over.
Bring a Friend
If your child has a favorite toy or stuffed animal, you might want to bring it along with them to the dentist’s appointment as long as it does not interfere with what the dentist needs to do. Some dental offices do offer a special collection of toys for kids to hold during appointments. If your child is a bit nervous, call the office ahead of time to inform the dentist of the situation so they can adjust their approach accordingly.
Read Stories or Play Games Involving Dentist Visits
Prior to your dental visit, read to your child a good selection of books that is geared toward their age level that involve dental visits. This can help desensitize them and hopefully lessen their amount of anxiety.
Encourage kids to practice good oral care habit, which includes routine dental appointments at an early age so they can develop a positive attitude towards oral care. Want to know more? Call or visit a friendly Plymouth Dentist today for more tips.