First Trip to the Dentist – Tips and Tricks

The first time you take your kid to the dentist, you’ll be faced with a few challenges. It’s a new environment for most kids, and one that’s full of things that can potentially be scary. The first time for kids can be a frightening experience, making for a hard time for you, and your kids. It doesn’t have to be that way. Keep reading to find out how you can make your kid’s trip to the dentist a breeze.

Don’t talk about pain

Even if you know for sure that your kid has some problems that may need attention, like fillings, tooth decay or gum disease, don’t talk about how it may or may not hurt. Chances are that Dr. McKay Garrett can fix whatever is wrong with minimal discomfort for your child. If you tell your kids it might hurt, it’ll only make them more nervous about the experience. If you personally have had bad experiences with pain at the dentist, don’t tell them those stories. Regular dental checkups are pain free and our team knows how to make your kid feel comfortable!

Focus on the Rewards

Here at Tooth Club For Kids, we’re happy to provide toys in the waiting room, as well as fun toys to keep after a kid’s dental appointment. This helps out in two ways – it gives kids something to look forward to after the appointment and provides an incentive to keep their teeth clean between appointments. For kids this makes it a lot easier to look forward to the dentist because they get a little play time before as well as a reward after.

Teach them

Teaching your kids to care for their teeth can help make them feel confident at the dentist. You can explain a trip to the dentist as a checkup on your teeth and if they know that they have been taking care of their teeth then they can know that their teeth are healthy! Encourage them to ask the dentist any question they might have regarding the health of their teeth. We love to help teach kids the importance of their oral health!

 

We want to help your kids have the best experience possible with Dr. McKay Garrett. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call us today at 602-843-1275.