Advanced technology has made dentistry more comfortable over the years, so if you felt fear as child when you went to the dentist, the good news is your children don’t have to experience the same thing. Children typically fear the unknown, so there are many things you can do at home to make sure they are comfortable and ready for their dental appointments. Here are some helpful tips from your dentist in Indianapolis.
Start Brushing at an Early Age
As soon as your child’s teeth arrive you should start to brush them. Not only does this keep them clean and healthy, it also helps acclimate your child to the process of brushing.
Schedule Their First Visit Around the Age of One
Your team at Indy Dental Group loves to welcome children to our practice, and we’d like you to bring them in for their first visit around the age of one. This may seem early, but it gives us the opportunity to exam and count your child’s teeth and make you aware of any developmental concerns as soon as we see them. It also helps your child get comfortable at our office as we begin to build a relationship with them.
Talk About the Dentist and Practice at Home
Once their appointment is scheduled, you can read books at home with them about the dentist and even practice examining their teeth like the dentist will. You can make it fun for them by bringing a favorite toy or stuffed animal to accompany them at their visit. You want them to feel as comfortable as possible about their appointment before they even arrive.
Visit the Office Prior to Their Appointment
Take a tour of the dental office before their first appointment so they know what to expect. You can even bring your small child to your own appointment so they can get acclimated as to what happens at the dental office and understand that it’s not scary.
Don’t Project Your Fears
If you’ve had bad experiences at the dentist in the past yourself, please try to stay really positive for your child. Kids take cues from their parents, and you don’t want to project your fears onto them. If you need help, have a family member accompany you and your child to the dentist.
Visit Indy Dental Group for Stress Free Dentistry
At Indy Dental Group, we’re here to help in any way we can! Our goal is to create positive and upbeat experiences for children so they look forward to their future dental visits. Contact your family dentist in Indianapolis today to schedule your child’s next dental appointment.