4 Tips To Help Your Kids Prepare For Their Next Dental Appointment

A visit to the dentist might seem a little intimidating to your little ones, but they have to need to worry!  Here at Wasatch Pediatric Dentistry we do everything we can to make the experience easy and fun for kids and their parents. 

 We are here to help maintain proper dental health, and have come up with some tips and tricks to ease your child’s anxiety and prepare them for their next visit!

1. Talk about it.  

Sometimes children develop a fear of going to the dentist based off things they have seen on television or heard from another child.  Some kids have had negative experiences at the dentist, but they shouldn’t have to be nervous that every visit will be like that.  Try talking to your child before their visit.  Listen to their worries and help them understand the benefits of seeing the dentist.  Maybe consider buying a book to explain why going to the dentist is important, or watching an educational video with them.

  2. Be a good example.

Let your child see you brushing your teeth and practicing good oral health.  Try telling them about how you go to the dentist regularly, or even take them with you to your next appointment so they can watch.  Allow them to ask you questions about your visit once you are done.  

3. Emphasize the importance.

Neglecting proper dental care in the early years of life can have lasting impacts on a child’s oral health.  Explain to your child as best as possible that taking care of their teeth is important!  Daily brushing, flossing, and regular trips to the dentist will keep their teeth strong and healthy.  Everyone loves a beautiful smile!

4. Let them know they did a good job.

After your visit let your kids know they did a good job!  If they behaved or weren’t overly fussy you could even reward them afterward with a trip to the park, their favorite treat, or a new toy.  Putting the appointment between two positive experiences can make it a great day for your kids.