Our office has designed a process to make their first visit as enjoyable and comfortable as possible. Here are some tips that will help your child's visit be a positive experience.
- It's never too early to start brushing your child's teeth. Start as soon as your child's first tooth erupts. Never allow your child to go to sleep after eating or drinking anything WITHOUT BRUSHING OR WIPING DOWN THEIR TEETH FIRST! This is very important to prevent baby bottle tooth decay and make their first visit a GREAT ONE!
- Avoid using the dentist as a threat when scolding your child. For example: Don't do that or the I'll bring you to the dentist
- Refrain from using words that may create unnecessary anxiety. For example: needle, shot, or pain. Tell them, "We are going to see the dentist so he can count your teeth and make sure they healthy!"
The First Visit
A child's first dental visit is usually short and noninvasive. Our goal is to help your child become familiarized with our staff in a friendly, non threatening way. During the exam, Dr Takenishi will check your child's teeth for decay, and assess their bite, gums, oral tissue, and jaw. Dr Takenishi will also go over the basics of oral health care for your child, dental development, and answer any of your questions.