You probably don’t put “Going to the Dentist” at the top of your list of “Favorite Things to Do.” When you think about taking your kids to your Austin family dentist, you may feel quite a bit of anxiety as well. There is no need to get upset! For one thing, your child will pick up on it, and it will automatically make her feel uneasy. Plus, a good Austin family dentist has plenty of experience working with kids, and will know how to make your child feel safe and at ease.
Dentists recommend that children begin regular appointments about six months after their first tooth comes in. If this is your child’s first visit to the dentist, it is imperative that you remain calm and upbeat. After all, this is a new experience for her and she has nothing to be upset about. She might even like it! That first visit will be quick and easy. Your Austin family dentist will examine your child’s teeth and may gently clean and apply fluoride to them.
As your children get older, you will need to explain dental visits more thoroughly. Always remain positive about it, and never talk about your unpleasant dental experiences in front of your kids. Explain to your kids the importance of dental hygiene and keeping your teeth clean, but always keep it positive. Don’t say to them, for example, “If you don’t brush your teeth, you’ll have to go to the dentist.” The fact is, they’ll have to go to the dentist even if they do brush their teeth, and this only implies that a dental visit is some kind of punishment for wrongdoing. Before a visit, explain all the tools and procedures to your child so she will know exactly what to expect when she gets there. If your child is very young, she may not remember her last visit to your Austin family dentist, and it may be helpful to read a book about going to the dentist or “play dentist” with a favorite doll or stuffed animal.
Be honest with your child. If she asks, “Will it hurt?” tell her the truth. If she’s going in for a general cleaning you can say, “It won’t hurt but it might be a little uncomfortable.” If she’s going in for a filling or other dental procedure, tell her “It will hurt some, but I know you will be very brave, and I will be very proud of you.” Bring a favorite stuffed animal along to the office, and encourage your child to be brave like her favorite action or Disney heroes.
Remember, you are not doing this on your own. If you have chosen a good Austin family dentist he or she will know how to help you and your child. Because chances are, you’re feeling more anxious than she is.
