Just like adults, not every child will be excited about their first trip to the dentist. The new environment, including unfamiliar faces and the dental instruments, can make the entire experience quite overwhelming for your child. Therefore, as a parent, it's imperative to help your kid remain relaxed and comfortable during their visit to the dentist. However, not every parent knows exactly what they need to do. If you're a new parent, you may find it quite challenging to prepare your little one for his/her first dental visit. Here are some tips to help you.
Start Early
Do not wait until your kid gets older to take them to the dentist. The earlier the better because it helps your child become familiar with the environment around the dentist. Therefore, start thinking about taking your kid to the dentist as soon as they start developing their first set of teeth. You will then have an easier time getting them to relax while at the dentist in their later childhood stages. The goal is to let them get used to seeing the dentist regularly as they grow.
Let Them Understand the Need to See A Dentist
Kids often develop some fears about a trip to the dentist because they do not know what to expect. Taking your time to explain to your kid why good oral hygiene is important can help reduce whatever fears they might have. However, you need to choose your words carefully when explaining to them what the dentist will do and why. It's imperative that you be as simple as you possibly can. Giving too many details about the dental visit can alarm your little one and even cause more anxiety. Therefore, keep it simple but try to include the major details of the treatment.
Take Your Kid to A Paediatric Dentist
A mistake many parents tend to make is taking their kid to their own dentist. Your dentist may be good, but a paediatric dentist would be better for your kid. That's because paediatric dentists understand children better and know how to make your kid feel relaxed during the dental visit. You can also consider a family dentist.
Practise Before You Leave
Practising with your son or daughter before a trip to the dentist prepares them to be more at ease going into the treatment or checkup. Therefore, role play with your kid, allowing them to be the patient, the parent and even the dentist. Whatever strategy you use, make sure they have an idea of what to expect going into the experience.
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