Parents, Children, and the Dentist

If you are a parent, regardless if you are a first time parent or already have children, you know the large of a responsibility you have. Parents want to make sure that their children grow up to be healthy. This includes having great dental health. However, many children fear the dentist and don’t want to go. They may have seen kids on their favorite television shows run from a dental appointment or have heard from their friends how the dentist made their mouths hurt. Others may have gone once before and had an unpleasant experience. No matter what, a fear of the dentist is something many children and even adults have.

One the most important things that every parent should teach their child is basic dental hygiene—brushing and flossing. As early as you can, you should explain the reason why they need to brush their teeth every after a meal and the importance of using floss regularly. They also need to understand that the dentist isn’t a bad person. He or she is simply trying to help the child maintain good oral hygiene and stay healthy. He and his staff don’t intentionally try to hurt anyone. In some cases, he may offer small treats to children who complete a visit without any trouble, and you can use this treat as incentive for a successful visit. You can also discuss the difficulties people who don’t see the dentist regularly may have, although this may not work with young children.

As a parent, it is very important to properly introduce your dentist and explain to your child the purpose of getting regular cleanings and exams as they help keep their teeth healthy. A dental appointment doesn’t have to be scary. When they understand the important procedures done by their dentist and how he helps them take good care of their teeth, they will appreciate everything he does for them.

Stay with your child throughout the entire visit. Talk to them doing the exam and other procedures. A good dentist will also talk to the child constantly, telling him or her what they’re about to do and what the child will experience. They should also answer any questions you or your child has, and if your child asks the dentist to stop, he should do so until you’ve had a chance to explain why he’s doing what he’s doing and why it’s important.