Dentist Visit - First Visit To The Dentist

It is very difficult to decide when your child is ready for his first dental checkup, especially when you consider the hang ups many adults seem to have about visiting the dentist.

Some dentists recommend a first visit when a child’s first teeth erupt, but most will agree that it is impractical to take a six or nine month old child to the dentist.

It also seems a bit pointless to put your child through the bewilderment of a very foreign environment when, firstly, you are unable to explain adequately what is going on, and secondly, he only has one tooth in his mouth.

If possible, however, when your toddler is old enough to understand what it is all about, take her with you when you have you checkup. This introduces her to the environment and she is likely to be fascinated by all the lights and gadgets.

Just let her sit on your lap, or even play on the floor next to the dental chair while you have your consultation. Then, if she is keen to do so, let her have a ride in the dentist’s chair.

The aim is to make the dental consulting room more familiar, as well as a fun place to be. Do not transfer your fear to your children.

Create a positive first encounter by taking your child to a pediatric dentist who specializes in little patients, or find a patient and understanding dentist who will not mind paying a little extra attention.

Choose a dentist who is sympathetic and has the time to explain procedures to your child in a friendly and non threatening manner.

When she has all her teeth, at about two and a half or three years of age, you could start thinking about arranging a first checkup for her, but ensure you explain what it is all about, and try not to scare her. Talk about why we have to go to the dentist, using children’s books on the subject from the library if necessary.