7 Tips to Make Your Child’s First Dentist Trip Stress-Free

Your child’s baby teeth or milk teeth should grow out by the time they turn 2 and remain in place until they turn 6. That’s when the child’s permanent teeth start to grow out, pushing out the milk or primary teeth. Although toddlers and younger children don’t face too many dental problems in the first few years, parents are encouraged to stick to strict oral hygiene routines and take their children for routine teeth check-ups soon after they turn 2. However, if you’ve got any concerns about their teeth before they turn 2, don’t hesitate to visit a dentist and ask questions.

 A visit to the dentist can be quite a nerve-wracking experience for some adults but as a parent, you ought to make sure your little one doesn’t come to realise this. Children are very receptive to their parent’s emotions, so if you become very nervous at the dental office, ask your spouse to do the job for you. Since it’s important to start dental check-ups early, don’t postpone visits until a problem arises. Take preventive measures and keep in mind the following tips. 

Find a Children's Dentist Specialist

Look for a dentist who specialises in paediatric dentistry. Children's dentists are more experienced in dealing with children and know how to relate to them. They keep children engaged in conversation or offer toys to keep them distracted so that the check-up goes very smoothly.

Introduce Child-Friendly Education

Pick up children’s books at the library or bookstore that talk about visiting the dentist. Spend time reading these books to your children so they understand the concept of visiting the dentist and remember the story when they actually make their first visit.

Introduce Core Concepts

You can teach your child to open his mouth when requested and use a torch to look inside the mouth, pretending to be a doctor. Give your child a turn to do the same for you. This is a very playful and exciting way to make them feel comfortable about going to the dentist.

Familiarise them with Your Dentist

If you use the same dental practice for your dental needs, take your child along so they can observe and become familiar with the surroundings. This will help them stay calm when it’s their turn to get into the chair.

Scheduling is Everything

Avoid taking your child to the dentist during their usual nap time or late in the evening when they’re tired or bored. Appointments scheduled in the mornings are better because children are more attentive after a good night’s rest and they’re willing to cooperate with you when they’re in a good mood.

Become a Role Model

Model healthy oral habits by brushing regularly and helping your child to brush twice a day. Teaching them how to floss when they’re young will help them form good habits right from the start.

Keep Calm and Distract

Lastly, if your child does have to undergo a procedure after the first visit, make sure you remain calm and keep your child calm by putting on their favourite shows on the iPad or TV. Talk to them about what’s going to happen but make sure not to mention words like ‘needles’ or ‘drills’ unless it’s absolutely necessary.

The best approach is to use prevention instead of having to rely on treatments to fix dental issues. If you’re looking for family dental care in Melbourne, don’t hesitate to give us a ring or visit us online. We offer you the latest services in child dentistry in Melbourne.