Dentists – Preparing Your Little One for That First Trip

A first trip to the dentist is scary, and particularly so because most first time patients are small children. To make these inaugural trips to dentists less stressful for each of your children, take some time to plan them carefully and prepare your child beforehand so he knows what to expect. While no amount of planning can prevent all meltdowns and tantrums, a little foresight can help limit them.

Preparation starts at home. Head to your local library and check out children's books about dentists. If possible, find books that show their favorite characters visiting the dentist. Read the books with your child, and then ask your child if he has any questions. Tell him that like the characters in the story, he is going to be visiting the dentist very soon, and you want him to know what to expect.

Dentists that cater to children often allow you to bring your child to the office for a visit and tour before the actual appointment. By seeing the room and equipment and meeting the people beforehand, your child may feel less apprehensive. Some dental offices will even offer to have the dentist show some of the equipment and what it does. You will need to consider your child's temperament when determining whether this tactic will be beneficial or not.

Some children are calmed by having the chance to watch an actual dental visit. If you have a checkup scheduled sometime soon, consider having your child tag along, provided she is able to sit still and you have another caretaker who can come along to entertain her when she gets bored. 

If your child is not forthcoming about her fears or concerns, consider role-playing the visit at home. Not only will this help her to understand more about what to expect, but it also gives her a way to ask her questions. Children often express their fears and concerns much better through play, so give her this opportunity. Set up a pretend dental chair and use a child's doctor's toy kit to act out what will happen at most dentists. Practice counting your child’s teeth, placing small instruments in the mouth, and brushing your child's teeth for her while she sits in your makeshift chair. Let your child be the dentist as well as the patient to gain a sense of control over what is happening.

When the time for the visit arrives, allow your child to take a small stuffed animal or other lovie with him to the appointment. Having something comfortable from home will make him feel less anxiety. Your dentist will likely allow him to keep the item in his hands during the appointment. 

Remember, no matter how much you prepare your children for their visits to dentists, they will still feel a little frightened, and many will cry or protest the visit. As long as the child does not throw a massive temper tantrum or exhibit behavior that you absolutely cannot condone, it is best to end the visit on a positive note with a lot of praise and support. This will make it a positive memory for the next time you go.