When a child first goes to the dentist for a dental cleaning, there is often anxiety and resistance, which is completely normal. Thankfully, general dentists who work with children are trained to be extra patient and gentle. Additionally, they are able to provide parents with tips that can be helpful in preparing the child for their first appointment.
Outlined below are a few tips from a general dentist on ways to prepare children for their first dental cleaning. This information can be helpful for parents who are not sure where to start.
The best way to prepare a child for their first dental cleaning is to explain the entire process from start to finish. While the explanation may have to be modified to hold the child's attention, the end result can be beneficial for the dental cleaning appointment. When children know what to expect and have a good understanding of something new, they are more likely to have a better experience. Fears, anxieties and concerns can be addressed before the appointment, which can be helpful when it is time to visit the dentist.
General dentists also recommend that parents do a pretend examination of the child's mouth at home. A pretend exam gives the child the opportunity to experience what the real thing will be like during their dental cleaning appointment. Parents can carefully feel around the mouth and look at the teeth and gums, talking the child through the process so they know what is going on every step of the way.
Another great way to prepare children for their first dental cleaning appointment is to visit the dentist's office before the initial cleaning. A quick meet and greet or tour of the office can be done so the child becomes familiar with the environment and the staff. After an initial visit, the child is likely to be more comfortable with going back for their first dental cleaning.
As soon as a child's first few teeth erupt, parents can practice gentle at-home brushing. Using a small amount of kid-friendly toothpaste and a baby-sized toothbrush, parents can clean the child's teeth, so they get used to the practice early on. Additionally, it can help the child become familiar with what will happen during the dental cleaning appointment.
When looking for more ways to prepare for a child's first dental cleaning, it is best to consult directly with a general dentist. Questions and concerns can be addressed and a meet and greet with the child can be done, which can help ease fears and anxieties. To get started or to find out more, reach out today.
Request an appointment here: https://elitedentalregopark.com or call Elite Dental Rego Park at (718) 841-9567 for an appointment in our Rego Park office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Cleaning in Rego Park, NY.
Although a dental cleaning appointment sounds specific to having the teeth cleaned, there are other services included in these appointments, all of which help ensure good oral health. Good oral health is essential because it encourages the rest of the body to also be in good health. To understand the entire scope of dental cleaning…
A deep dental cleaning is a way that dentists treat severe cases of gum disease. If your dentist detects signs of periodontitis, such as deep gum pockets and bone loss in the jaw, then they may recommend a cleaning to get the disease under control and so the patient can take the first step in…
Preventive dentistry involves using the right products. This includes selecting the right toothpaste. There is a type of toothpaste for every person. If you want to enhance your preventive dentistry brushing strategy, here are some tips on choosing the right toothpaste.The attending dentist will be the judge of the most suitable toothpaste. The dentist knows…
Preventive dentistry is for anyone interested in protecting their long-term dental and overall health. It is a branch of dentistry that focuses on treatments that help keep teeth healthy, such as teeth cleanings, fluoride treatments, and dental sealants. Preventive dentistry also includes simple things that you can do on your own to keep your teeth…