There’s nothing better than seeing your child’s pearly grin.
and the first step to ensuring your little one grows up with a healthy and happy smile is to promote a positive bond between them and their dental care provider.
Dr. Rafat Razi D.M.D, M.P.H. offers the following advice on how to help your child enjoy their dental visits.
Start Checkups Young
It’s difficult finding some peace of mind when you’re worrying about your little one’s needs as they grow. Laying a strong foundation for oral care as early as possible in your child’s life will be one less stressor in the long run. “The Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child’s first dental visit is no later than their first birthday or 6 months after the eruption of the first tooth,” Dr. Razi advises. “The first visit allows a dental home to be established for the child at an early age. From then on, this will get the child used to the dentist so if they ever needed to have an Emergency Dentist appointment, they wouldn’t be scared.”
Promote A Positive Attitude
Your child looks to you for guidance; make sure they’re aware that going to the dentist is a fun, and engaging experience. “If parents are anxious, [and] worried, children usually portray similar behavior,” says Dr. Razi. “If parents are encouraging, [and] positive, children have a more trusting relationship and are also more positive, with a better experience.”
Begin with tone and phrasing. “Use words of encouragement. Inform him/her that we are here to help. Avoid using words such as hurt, shot, needle, or blood. This will have a more positive experience for the child.”
Prepare Ahead of Time
Taking action to improve your child’s attitude before their checkup can significantly decrease their anxiety. “Prepare the child for the visit so that he/she can become more familiar with the procedures that are involved. Fear of the unknown can be alleviated by show-tell-do technique,” Dr. Razi explains. Acting out a dental checkup during brushing time can also familiarize them with the process. Visit RaziPediatricDentist.com for a print-out of a personalized coloring book that showcases what a child can expect during their first visit.
Additionally, keep in mind to be prepared for any emergency tooth pain. It could be one of the most irritating moments of life, when suddenly on a happy day your child experiences a frustrating pain from a broken, chipped, or knocked out tooth. These unforeseen circumstances generally require immediate attention preferably that of a skilled dentist. People living in the East Coast of United States might want to look for clinics like Dentist Specialists if they are in need of services of an emergency dentist in Fort Lauderdale.
When it’s time for their checkup, allow their dentist to take lead directly with your child, if possible. This will help to establish a bond between your little one and their dental care provider, and also allows the dentist to talk directly to your child about proper preventative care. “Preventive education on the first visit-such as proper dietary habits, fluoride use, and brushing and flossing techniques can help instill good home care.”
For More Information:
Rafat S. Razi DMD, MPH
2160 W. Grant Line Rd., Ste. 130, Tracy
(209) 834-1307
RaziPediatricDentist.com