Dental care is important for kids. With proper oral hygiene and routine visits to Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, you can help them avoid common problems like tooth decay (cavities), and build healthy dental habits that will last them a lifetime. But how should you teach your child about the dentist? In this blog, we’ll discuss a few tips, strategies, and suggestions you can use to teach your child about the importance of their teeth, good dental hygiene, and routine visits to the pediatric dentist.
Our Top Tips For Teaching Kids About Dentistry And Dental Care
Do you want your child to learn more about dentistry, dental hygiene, and the importance of caring for their teeth? Here are a few simple tips to get you started:
- Read children’s books – There are lots of children’s books out there about teeth and dentistry, and you can probably check most of them out at your local library, or buy them from Amazon or another bookseller. Kids love reading with their parents, so this is a fun way to introduce them to the basic concepts of oral hygiene and dental care.
- Check out videos on YouTube – You’ll also find tons of free videos on YouTube about dentistry, featuring animated characters, quirky storylines, and enthusiastic hosts. You can start with this video from SciShow Kids, or this Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood video from PBS. There are hundreds of others, too!
- Lead by example – Make sure you tell your child why brushing their teeth is important, and be a good example by brushing their teeth (and your own) regularly. You’ll be brushing their teeth for them until they're about 5 or 6, so you’ll have plenty of time to make a good impression!
- Let them pick their toothbrush and toothpaste – Kids love making decisions. If you want them to be more engaged in their dental hygiene, you can let them choose their own toothbrush and toothpaste. There are lots of toothbrushes with characters from Disney and Marvel, and toothpaste for kids often has fun flavors like bubble gum. Let them make the choice, and they’ll be more interested in dental hygiene!
When To Take Your Child To See The Dentist – 1 Year Or 1 Tooth (Whichever Is First)
So, when should you take your child to the dentist for the first time? The AAPD (American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry) recommends that your child goes to the dentist when they turn 1 year old, or whenever their first tooth erupts. That’s our recommendation at Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, too.
So if your child is 1 year old or has their first tooth, it’s time to schedule a visit with Dr. Naomi La. As an experienced pediatric dentist, she can take care of your child’s smile and teach them the basics about dentistry and dental hygiene.
How To Prepare Your Child For Their First Visit
If you’re bringing your child to Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry for the first time, there are a few steps you can take to set yourself up for success:
- Avoid negative language – When talking about the dentist, always be positive. Don’t use words like “hurt” or “shot” that may make your kid upset or nervous about their appointment.
- Have a good attitude – Do your best to stay positive. Kids are sensitive to how their parents are feeling. They can tell if you’re nervous or uncomfortable. Be a good example by having a positive attitude!
- Come in the morning – When they're rested, kids are less likely to be cranky and difficult during their appointment. Bring them to the dentist in the morning, or after their daily nap.
- Keep them occupied – We’ve got plenty of toys at our office, but you may want to bring some of your kid’s favorite toys, games, and activities with you to keep them occupied.
- Find the right pediatric dentist – A caring, gentle, and kind pediatric dentist will keep your child feeling safe and comfortable through their whole procedure. So make sure to choose an experienced pediatric dentist in Southborough, such as Dr. La at Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry.
Ready For Their First Visit? Come To Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry
At Cedar Brook Pediatric Dentistry, we’re ready to be your child’s dental home. Dr. La and our child-friendly team will make you and your little ones feel right at home. So don’t wait. Whether your child is due for their first appointment or you’re just new to the area and you’re looking for a pediatric dentist, we’re here to help. Contact us online or give us a call at (617) 453-8397 to schedule your consultation today.
