Preparing for your child’s first visit

Explaining the dental experience to your child begins at home, with encouragement and reassurances. Here are a few suggestions to help prepare your child for his or her first visit to our office:

• Explain that dental visits are a part of growing up. There is no reason to be afraid; parents go to the dentist too.
• The less “fuss,” the better.
• If your child asks for more information, explain that the doctor will count his or her teeth to make sure they are healthy. Our doctor and dental team will walk through each step of the process with your child, explaining all of the tools used.
• Before your appointment, you’re welcome to visit our office with your child to see us work with other children. Please contact our office for a tour.
• Keep the day of the appointment easy and try to have your child well rested. Avoid setting appointments close to their nap times.
• Please do not threaten a visit to the dentist as punishment for misbehavior.
• If you have had a bad experience at the dentist, try not to communicate your fears to your child.