Children are notoriously shy around strangers. But their first dental visit should not be cause for fear and tears. Taking them to the dentist for the first time can be a daunting experience, both for parents and kids. However, establishing a positive association with dental visits early on is crucial for your child’s oral health. With the right preparation and mindset, you can make the experience smooth, stress-free, and even enjoyable. Here are some practical tips for taking young kids to the dentist.

Start Early

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth appearing. Starting early helps your child become familiar with the dentist’s office and builds trust. It also gives the dentist a chance to monitor the development of your child’s teeth and gums.

Prepare Your Child in Advance

Before you make a dental appointment for your child, take him or her on a ride-along to one of your dental appointments. Let your son or daughter experience the office and get the lay of the land. Toddlers don’t like surprises. But if your little one is already familiar with the big chair that goes up and down, the next time he or she will have no problem taking a seat.

Talk to your child about what to expect during their dental visit. Use positive language and keep the explanation simple. For example, you might say, “The dentist will count your teeth and help keep them strong and healthy.” Avoid using words like “pain” or “needle” that could create fear. Books, videos, and role-playing can also help familiarize your child with the process.

A few days before the scheduled appointment, start reading your toddler bedtimes stories about what happens at the dentist. Dora the Explorer’s Show Me Your Smile, written by Christine Ricci, is a popular dental story that your child might relate to.

Schedule Wisely

Timing is everything when it comes to young children. Schedule the appointment at a time when your child is well-rested and in a good mood, such as after a nap or in the morning. Avoid times when they might be tired, hungry, or cranky, as this can make the experience more challenging.

Stay Positive

Your attitude can greatly influence your child’s perception of the dentist. Stay calm and upbeat, even if you’re feeling anxious. Avoid sharing any negative dental experiences you may have had, as this can create unnecessary fear. Instead, focus on the positive aspects, like picking a fun toy or getting a sticker after the appointment.

Positive reinforcement is a good thing. That’s why Smilez Pediatrics hand out cool toothbrushes or stickers to children after their appointment. A fun-colored toothbrush with a suction bottom is a good incentive to come back for another cleaning.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene at Home

Encourage good oral hygiene habits at home to make the dentist’s job easier. Brush your child’s teeth twice a day using a small, soft-bristled toothbrush and a pea-sized amount of fluoride toothpaste. Start flossing as soon as your child’s teeth begin to touch. When kids are familiar with oral care routines, they’re more likely to feel comfortable during dental checkups.

Bring Comfort Items

If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or toy, bring it along to the appointment. Familiar objects can provide a sense of comfort and security, especially in unfamiliar environments. Some pediatric dentists even encourage children to bring their “friends” along for a checkup.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward your child for good behavior during their dental visit. Praise them for being brave or cooperative, even if the visit doesn’t go perfectly. Small rewards like stickers, a trip to the park, or an extra bedtime story can create positive associations with the dentist.

Be Patient

It’s normal for young kids to feel nervous or scared about visiting the dentist. Be patient and understanding, and try not to force them into situations that make them uncomfortable. Sometimes, it may take a few visits for your child to feel at ease. The goal is to build trust and create a positive experience over time.

About the big dental chair … well, it’s really an amusement park ride. See how it goes up and down? Toddlers love games, and turning the trip to the dentist into a game is among the oldest (and most successful) tricks in the parent playbook.

Practice Role-Playing at Home

Before the appointment, play “dentist” at home. Pretend to be the dentist and let your child be the patient, or vice versa. Use a mirror to count their teeth and explain what the dentist will do. This game can help demystify the process and make the real visit feel more familiar.

Be Honest About Procedures

If your child needs a specific procedure, explain it in simple, non-threatening terms. For example, instead of saying, “The dentist will drill your tooth,” you could say, “The dentist will clean your tooth to make it healthy again.” Avoid lying, as this can erode trust if your child realizes the truth during the appointment.

Avoid Bribery

While rewards are great, avoid using bribery to get your child to the dentist. Saying things like, “If you don’t cry, I’ll give you candy,” can set a negative tone. Instead, frame the visit as a normal and positive part of life, like going to the park or a playdate.

Explain the Importance of Dental Care

Teach your child why visiting the dentist is essential. You might say, “The dentist helps keep your teeth strong so you can eat your favorite foods and have a big, bright smile.” Helping them understand the “why” can make the experience more meaningful.

Plan for Post-Appointment Fun

After the appointment, do something fun to celebrate your child’s bravery. This could be a trip to the playground, their favorite lunch spot, or even just extra playtime at home. Associating dental visits with positive experiences can help reduce anxiety for future appointments.

Final Thoughts

Taking young kids to the dentist doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. By starting early, preparing them in advance, and maintaining a positive attitude, you can help your child develop a lifetime of healthy dental habits. Remember, the goal is to create a foundation of trust and comfort that will encourage regular dental visits and good oral hygiene practices for years to come.

Should you have any questions or would like to discuss your child’s next visit please feel free to stop by our office or give us a call.