Tips for Preparing Your Child for Their First Dental Visit

Visiting a pediatric dentist in South Plainfield, NJ, can be scary for a child, especially if they’ve never been before. Here are a few tips that will help you ease your child into that all-important first dental visit. How you prepare your child for that first visit will lay the foundation for every future dental visit going forward. All it takes is a little forethought and mental preparation.

Take Your Child to One of Your Dental Visits

Take your child to one of your dental visits so they can see that you’re not afraid. It will also show them exactly what will happen during their visit. And that there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Read Your Child Stories about What Happens at the Dentist

Kids love stories! Reading them a story will help relax them and make it easier for them to understand the dental process.

Take Them to the Dental Office Before Their First Exam

Taking your child to the dentist’s office before their first exam will show them there’s nothing to be afraid of. So, their first visit won’t be a memory of an uncomfortable situation.

Tell Them About the Prizes They Will Get after Their Exam

Telling your child about what prizes they will get after their dental exam gives them something to look forward to (and a reason to want to go).

Never Schedule an Exam Near Their Nap Time

It’s best not to schedule a dental exam near your child’s nap time. Doing so will ensure a cranky, uncooperative child.

Bring Your Child’s Comfort Item to the Exam

The best way to make your child feel comfortable at their first dental exam is to bring their comfort item (blanket, favorite toy, etc.) to the exam.

Role Play the Exam with Your Child

Role-playing will show your child exactly what their first dental exam will be like. You can start by being the dentist and examining your child’s mouth. Then, let them be the dentist and examine your mouth. This works like a charm!

Choose a Pediatric Dentist

It’s extremely important to choose a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists have special training, techniques, and experience dealing with children.

Looking for a Pediatric Dentist in South Plainfield, NJ?

Finding just the right pediatric dentist for your child is so important, especially when taking them to the dentist for the first time. If you are looking for a kind, patient, compassionate dentist who knows how to deal with children, please Contact Pediatrics on Park today.