How To Prepare Your Child For Their Pediatric Exam

Taking your child to the doctor for checkup or any of the test is really a tough job for parents. It is because children have different way of thinking or looking at things. They may be afraid of going there or it may happen that if there previous visit was not good then again it’s difficult to make them understand about the visit to the doctor. Whatever the reason maybe but it is challenging for you and you should work out the ways and techniques that how you can make your children feel better while going to visit a doctor. Taking kids to the dentist is necessary to keep their teeth healthy and promote excellent oral hygiene habits. But from a child's point of view, a trip to the dentist can be a scary event. The best way to help your little ones overcome their fear of going to the dentist is to help prepare them for their next visit by practicing some of these tips.

Start Them out Young

The earlier a child visits the dentist, the better. It’s never too soon to start introducing children to tooth brushing and oral health. The best time to get started is before your child’s first dental visit.  Children love to learn about their bodies, and love to smile, touch, and explore new things. Childs First Dental Visit Songs00001 Many parents and caregivers love to teach children to point to their own eyes, nose, and belly button.  Why not add “teeth” and “tongue” to that list?  There are also a variety of baby and child-friendly books, crafts, activities, songs, and even apps that can help teach little ones about teeth, tooth brushing, dentists, and healthy smiles.  The more comfortable they are with their mouth and teeth, the easier your child’s first dental visit will be.

Be Positive When Discussing the Upcoming Appointment

Teach your child that visiting the dentist is a necessity, not a choice, and that the dentist will take care of his teeth so that they are strong enough for him to eat. You might also explain that the dentist helps keep cavities at bay and ensures that his patients will have a beautiful smile for years to come. When preparing for a visit, especially the first time, try not to include too many details. Doing so will raise more questions, and adding more information about an extra treatment like a filling he might need may cause unnecessary anxiety. Keep a positive attitude when discussing an upcoming visit, but don't give your child false hope.

Use Your Imagination

Babies and toddlers, just like older children, are very perceptive and sensitive to the attitudes and energy of those around them.  Children often mirror our behavior.  When we are relaxed and happy, children are more likely to be Childs First Dental Visit Songs00003relaxed, too.  Children are also more relaxed when they are prepared.  Spend time talking to children (yes, even babies and toddlers) about visiting the dentist.  Is there a special “going to the dentist” outfit to pick out, or book to bring? You can also spend time reading about visiting the dentist and talking about what the dentist will do in a positive way.  “The dentist will count your teeth,” or “We will show the dentist what a great job you do when you brush.”   Older siblings can also help in this area, to serve as a good role model and to talk in a positive way about visiting the dentist for a check-up.  You can bring your little one to dental visits to get them used to the sights and sounds of a dental office, and to help them prepare for their own visit.