We have been around long enough to know that coming to the dentist is not anyone’s favorite thing to do. It can be nerve-wracking to let a dentist poke and prod around in your mouth. Sometimes it hurts, and that is never fun!
None of this is news to us so, since the beginning, we have been doing whatever we can to make coming to the dentist a fun and exciting time! We take care of each patient and give them superhero treatment to show them how much fun it can be at the dentist!
To help make things easier, we could use your help to support the dentist at home! Here are some tips that we have put together to help you support your little one’s dental habits at home.
- Read books/watch videos and movies
- There are tons of media options out there about teeth, the dentist, and the tooth fairy that can help kids get used to talking/thinking about it in a fun and engaging way
- Brush your teeth together
- Be vocal about your dental habits. Brush your teeth and floss as a family so your little ones can see how you take care of your smile too
- You can let them pick their toothbrush out and build excitement about brushing.
- Listen and be open with them
- It is not a secret what happens in our offices so be open and communicate with them about it.
- Acknowledge their fears and concerns and validate with positive speech and excitement
- Teach them why it’s important to keep their teeth clean
- Be positive
- Kids are so impressionable, so as friends and family make sure to talk about the dentist in a positive, fun manner and it will rub off on your little ones!
- Make it a game/incentivize it
- Play dentist at home, make your visits into a game, and sometimes it might be necessary to bribe your superheroes to brush their teeth
- It can be monotonous to motivate your child to brush and floss every night. Make it a game or contest, or sing a song to make it fun and exciting!
- Bring them to us!
- Of course, picking a great dentist is very important too. Make sure that you find a place where your kids are comfortable and enjoy going.
This list is just a few of the ideas that can help your child/children be more excited and less stressed about the dentist. Share with us what tips and tricks you use at home!