If you want your child to have a healthy smile, it’s important to set good dental habits early in life, and part of that is helping them to used to the idea of visiting the dentist.
Your child’s first dental visit should be within six months of getting their first tooth, and every six months after that. Dental visits should be a regular part of your child’s life. Dental visits should not be limited to toothaches or dental emergencies. Your child should not associate the dentist with pain. Likewise, don’t use a trip to the dentist as a threat of a punishment; and you should never tell your child that a visit to the dentist won’t hurt. Instead, tell your child that the dentist will clean her teeth and give her a bright smile.
It is normal for a child to feel anxious or nervous about her trip to the dentist. If that is the case for your child, see if you can bring her in for a pre-appointment visit. This will give her a chance to meet the dentist and his team and see the office before her “official visit.” You can also read books and watch videos about the dentist, and be sure to talk to your child and address any concerns that she may have.
If she is still anxious on the day of her appointment, have her bring along a stuffed animal or blanket for a little extra comfort. Talk to the dentist about staying in the room with your child if it will make her feel more comfortable.
If it is time for your child’s visit, our dentist, Dr. Emanuel Amato would love to meet you and your child. To schedule your appointment at Chandler Family Dental Care in Chandler, Arizona, call 480-413-1100 today.