Getting your child to go to the dentist may be a real challenge for you. Many kids have a fear of going to the dentist, but dental visits are critical for the best dental health, and taking your children to the dentist is your responsibility when your kids are young. However, this may not be an easy trip for either of you. Knowing specific tips that will enable your child to have a less stressful dental visit is ideal.
Tip #1: Do a pretend visit
One way to prepare your children for going to the dentist is mimicking the actual visit. This could be as simple as helping your child relax in a chair at home while going over the things the dentist will do.
By doing a pretend visit with your child, you can ease the fear of the unknown, and this may be an effective way to encourage good dental health.
Tip #2: Start early
In order for your child to have the best dental health possible, you will want to start dental visits at a young age. In fact, the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children first visit a pediatric dentist at the age of one year old or within six months after the first tooth erupts.
Be sure to schedule routine check-ups every six months after the first initial dental visit.
Tip #3: Emphasize good dental practices
By talking to your child about the importance of healthy teeth and having a beautiful smile, you can help dental visits a bit less stressful. Taking the time to let your child know that healthy teeth will only come from seeing the dentist on a routine basis can provide the necessary motivation for your child to go.
Tip #4: Watch your words
It's important to be careful of what you say around your child before going to the dentist. This could have either a positive or negative impact on the attitude of your child on this particular day.
For instance, it's ideal to avoid saying the words pain or shots to avoid making your child more anxious. Try to keep your words positive or neutral to minimize the stress for your child during this time.
The key to helping your child have healthy teeth at any age is by encouraging good dental health early. Be sure to talk to you pediatric dentist about additional ways to keep your child's anxiety at a minimum before dental visits.
For more information about pediatric dental health or to contact a dentistry for an appointment, visit sites such as http://www.apollodentalcenter.com.
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