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Your child’s first dental visit

Taking your toddler to the dentist for the first time is a visit that could become stressful, unless it’s handled in the right way:

Preparing for the visit

• A good way to prepare is to play ‘dentist’ together at home. Count your toddler’s teeth, then switch places and let them count yours.
• When you play this game, let your toddler know that this is what the dentist will do, and that it will be fun.
• Don’t overdo the preparation for the visit, as this in itself may start to make your child feel more nervous.
• Avoid using negative terms about the dentist around your child before you go for a visit, otherwise they may begin to build up the expectation that there’s something scary about dental visits.
• Ask the whole family to be aware of this and to be careful about the ways in which they refer to the dentist, and to keep any fears or bad experiences to themselves.

The first dental trip

• Schedule the appointment for earlier in the day, when your toddler is more likely to be awake and energetic.
• Allow plenty of time to get to the appointment. Rushing may make the child anxious.
• Let your child bring a favourite stuffed toy with him to help soothe any anxieties.
• Try and avoid beginning any suggestions about whether or not needles will be involved, or if procedures will be painful. It’s unlikely that a first appointment will involve any pain at all, and it may upset your child when there’s no need.
• Instead talk about positive ideas like showing how shiny your child’s teeth are in a mirror, or getting a brand new toothbrush with a cartoon character on it.
• Advise your dentist about any special needs or problems your child may have, such as bleeding disorders, allergies or asthma.
• Once you’re in the examination room with your child, be a cheerful and reassuring presence who only gives assurances when they’re needed.
• Let the dentist lead the examination. They’re in charge of the situation, and will be experienced in putting children at their ease.
• A dentist who’s good with small children will explain everything carefully and slowly in an imaginative way, knowing that children are generally fascinated by dental equipment and procedures.
• Hopefully, your child will find this first dental trip an enjoyable experience.