Visiting the dentist can be intimidating at any age if you don’t know what to expect. This is especially true for children, as it’s hard to explain to them that there is nothing to fear. There are some ways they can receive this message without saying it, however. Here are some tips to help you prepare your child for their first visit to the dentist.

How to Keep Your Child Calm at the Dentist

1. Familiarize Your Child With the Dentist

Weeks beforehand, start introducing your child to the concept of dental appointments and oral hygiene. Walk them through a simplified version of an appointment and talk about how these exams will keep their teeth clean and healthy. You might also mention the small toy or sticker they could receive at the end.

There is also plenty of children’s media available that dedicate stories or television episodes to this topic. Try “The Tooth Book” by Dr. Seuss or the Peppa Pig episode, “Peppa’s Pearly Whites.”

2. Practice Brushing Your Child’s Teeth 

Your child’s first dentist appointment will typically involve gentle teeth cleaning, so teach them about brushing their teeth early on. Brushing your child’s teeth with a soft child’s toothbrush and a small, pea-sized drop of toothpaste will help them get used to the sensation.

You can also practice inspecting your child’s teeth so they can get used to that feeling. Most importantly, make the idea of oral hygiene fun. Use cool toothbrushes or silly timers. Offer them lots of praise once the act is complete.

3.  Provide Comfort & Reassurance 

Children do not have to experience their appointment alone. Stay with your child throughout the whole appointment if you like. Many dentists will even let you hold your child in your lap while they inspect their teeth. Children as you know, are more perceptive than some may think, so keeping a relaxed and calm demeanor is always helpful. Point out the “fun” aspects of the appointment, like the chair that moves up and down. Children CAN enjoy going to the dentist and their oral health will thank you! 

If you would like to schedule your child’s first dentist appointment, contact Dental Associates of Prairie du Chien, P.C., Family Dentistry Associates of Monona, or Waukon Dental.