Keeping Kids Excited for Checkups

It’s important for children to have regular dental checkups to keep their teeth healthy and instill in them a commitment to their dental health. Here’s how to help your child get excited about going to the dentist.

Start Dental Care Early

Make dental checkups a normal part of your child’s life by beginning dental care when they are an infant. Children should have their first dentist appointment by the time they turn one year old, or soon after they get their first tooth, whichever comes first.

Be Their Example

Children watch their family members and mimic the behaviors they see. If a child sees their parents and siblings caring for their dental health, they are likely to follow.

Do a Test Run

Before your child’s dentist visit, play “dentist” with them. Have your child lie down while you examine and brush their teeth. This can help them get used to having someone look at their teeth while still in a familiar environment.

Be Friends with Your Dentist

Make sure your child has the opportunity to interact with their dentist outside of the examination. Have a friendly chat with the dentist beforehand, so your child can see the dentist is a friend and not someone they need to be afraid of.

Make Things Fun

Make going to the dentist fun by giving rewards for good behavior. You can take them out for ice cream or pizza or to pick out a new toy or video game to help them associate dental checkups with positive emotions. This strategy can be dialed back when they feel more comfortable at the dentist, but the positive effects can remain for a lifetime.

For more tips to help your children feel comfortable at the dentist, call or stop by Midland Dental & Oasis Kids and Orthodontics in Roy, Utah today!