Is your little one ready to visit the dentist for the first time? Your child should have their first dental exam by their first birthday. Otherwise, make sure to schedule an appointment within six months of their first tooth appearing.
Unfortunately, some children experience dental anxiety. Visiting the dentist doesn’t have to feel like a scary experience, though! Instead, use these tips to prepare your child for their first Suwanee pediatric dentistry visit.
With these tips, you can put your child at ease. They’ll feel comfortable (and maybe even excited) for their first appointment.
Get your child ready to show off their stunning smile! Prepare for their pediatric dentist Suwanee appointment with these tips today.
1. Know What to Expect
Is this your first time taking your child in for a Suwanee pediatric dentistry appointment? It helps to know what to expect as a parent. That way, you’ll feel more confident preparing your child.
Your Suwanee kid’s dentist will first examine your child’s mouth. They’ll make sure their teeth, jaw, and gums are growing properly. If there are any potential developmental issues, they’ll let you know.
The dentist will also look for tongue ties, dental caries, or signs of injuries.
Talk to the dentist about developing your child’s oral health routine. They’ll help you determine what you need to keep your child’s teeth healthy. For example, you might discuss:
- The dietary choices that can cause cavities to form
- How to relieve teething discomfort
- The best techniques for brushing and flossing
- The best toothpaste and toothbrush to use for kids
- What to do about thumb-sucking or prolonged pacifier use
The initial exam will only take a few minutes. You’ll spend the rest of the appointment developing a plan for your child’s long-term care.
It’s important to choose a pediatric dentist Suwanee parents trust. Choosing the right pediatric dentist will put your child at ease.
First, make sure they specialize in pediatric dentistry. A pediatric dentist’s office is designed with children in mind. The office environment can put your child at ease.
The dental staff will also have the hands-on experience necessary for treating children. They’ll know how to remain patient, even when a child is crying. Taking your child to an adult dentist’s office, on the other hand, could make them uncomfortable.
2. Get Excited
About 42% of children experience dental fear. While it’s normal, you can help your child overcome their fear before their appointment.
Get excited about your child’s first visit! They might mimic your behavior and feel more at ease.
If you feel anxious about dentist appointments, they will, too.
Try to avoid phrases like “it won’t hurt” or “don’t be scared.” Your mind might think there’s a reason to fear the dentist. Instead, reassure them that visiting the dentist is a good thing.
Focus on the positives over the negatives before their appointment.
3. Tour the Office
After you search “pediatric dentist near me Suwanee” and choose an office, schedule an appointment. Ask any lingering questions you have about the office. For example, you might want to schedule a tour before the day of the checkup.
Scheduling a tour will give you a chance to meet the staff and dentist in person. It can also help your child feel more comfortable with the environment before their appointment.
Choose dentistry for kids Suwanee offices that:
- Offer fun toothpaste flavors
- Have games, a TV, or toys in the waiting room
- Feature a warm, inviting staff
If your child has fun before their visit, they’ll feel less defensive. Your child can start to trust the dentist and their staff, too. They might even look forward to their future appointments.
4. Consider Your Schedule
When you schedule your Suwanee pediatric dentistry appointment is important.
When is your child in the best mood? Is it after their nap or lunchtime? Maybe they’re happier after watching TV.
When your child is tired or hungry, they might feel cranky. It’s possible they’ll become less cooperative during their appointment.
Instead, choose the timing wisely. Schedule your appointment based on your child’s mood.
5. Play Dentist at Home
If you want your child to become more familiar with your Suwanee pediatric dentist, play dentist at home. Playing dentist can help them become more comfortable with dentistry.
For example, you can sit your child in a chair and pretend to brush their teeth. If they’re old enough, let them brush your teeth.
Don’t forget to talk to your child about why oral hygiene is important. Remind them that brushing their teeth will ensure a sparkling smile.
The next time you brush your teeth, bring your child into the bathroom with you. Make it a part of their daily routine. Your child will mimic you and eventually maintain the same routine on their own.
6. Consider Comfort
Before your child’s first Suwanee pediatric dentistry appointment, consider different ways you can make them comfortable. Do they have a favorite stuffed animal or toy? Maybe they’re more comfortable when a security blanket is within reach.
Bring your child’s favorite toy with them. Their favorite toy can ensure they feel comfortable.
Consider bringing a backup with you in case the first option isn’t enough.
During the drive over, play your child’s favorite song in the car. Sing along to get them as comfortable as possible.
7. Use Rewards
Consider offering your child a reward to get them excited about going to the dentist. You don’t have to use food, either. Instead, consider offering a small toy or a trip to the playground.
Some dentist’s offices even offer children balloons after their appointments.
Let your child know they’ll get a reward for their good behavior after their appointment.
Your child will focus on the potential reward, rather than their fear. They’ll feel more motivated to behave as a result.
Stunning Smiles: 7 Tips to Prepare Your Child for Suwanee Pediatric Dentistry
Ready for your child’s first dentist appointment? Keep these tips when preparing for their Suwanee pediatric dentistry visit. With these tips, you can keep your child calm and excited!
Don’t forget to have their favorite toy handy.
Want to take your child to dentistry for kids Suwanee parents depend on? We’re here to help!
Contact us today to schedule your child’s first appointment.