Children should have their first visit with their dentist by their first birthday. It's helpful for parents to prepare their little ones for their first dental visits to keep the experience positive. Here are some helpful tips for things you can do at home to help your son or daughter feel comfortable, safe, and happy when it's time for pediatric dentistry.
#1 Prepare Them at Home
When baby teeth arrive, you can begin brushing them with a soft-bristled infant's toothbrush. This helps them acclimate to brushing and having their teeth examined, which is what will happen at their first dental appointment. During first dental visits, our team spends a lot of time just acclimating your little one to the dental chair and counting and examining their teeth.
#2 Speak Positively About the Dentist
Even if visiting the dentist is not your favorite activity, talking positively about the dentist is essential. Your child will respond to your energy, so keep your talk about the dentist light and fun.
#3 Play Games or Read Stories About Visiting the Dentist
You can introduce your child to the dentist before they visit with fun games, stories, or coloring pages that focus on positive dental visits. Watching upbeat shows or videos about visiting the dentist will also help your child know what to expect when it's their turn.
#4 Strategically Schedule Their First Appointments in Barrie
Pick a time to schedule your little one's first dental visit when they're not tired or hungry. Scheduling after a nap or after lunch may help them be in the right frame of mind for their first visit.
#5 Bring a Friend
Does your child have a favorite blanket or stuffed animal that helps them feel comfortable and happy? Then, bring it along to their dental visit!
If you're looking for excellent children's dentistry in Barrie, ON, and it's time for your little one's first visit, we invite you to contact Park Place Dental at (705) 728-9922.
