Preparing Your Child for Their First Pediatric Dentist Appointment

Alpharetta, GA –  Your child’s first trip to our pediatric dental office can sometimes be a little intimidating. Whether it is their first time in a pediatric dentist’s office or just their first time in a new practice, we want them to be as comfortable as possible. Here are a few tips to help ensure your child is ready for their first dental appointment!

Start Early

Your child will feel more prepared if they know what they are getting into. As soon as the appointment is scheduled, start talking to them about what a dentist appointment is like. Try telling them about how the pediatric dentist will make sure their teeth are all clean and healthy in an office that is just for kids, and be sure to ask if they have any questions. If you need help answering the questions they have, call your Roswell Pediatric Dentist!

Help Them Prepare!

While you should always encourage your child to take charge of their oral hygiene routine, this is especially helpful right before a dental appointment. Many children anticipate feeling shame for not having clean enough teeth or not brushing well enough during their dental appointment, so encouraging them that going the extra mile to keep their teeth clean leading up to the appointment will help them feel more confident. Anything that will reduce their anxiety about the strange new experience of pediatric dentistry helps!

Play a Game!

There are several games, books, and toys that can help your child prepare for their pediatric dental appointment without their knowing! Try including some of these ideas from our blog into playtime to help them get ready.

Try a Quick Preview!

If you think your child would be more comfortable after they have been inside the facility, call our office and schedule a quick walk through before your appointment! We will be happy to accommodate these needs. Your child will be able to see all of our friendly staff and their smiling faces, our well-lit and decorated rooms, and the waiting room where you will be in case you need them.

Plan a Prize!

Make plans with your child to have their favorite meal or go to the park if they show good behavior and bravery during their appointment. Having that to look forward to will help them get through their appointment and will also help them associate good feelings with their pediatric dental checkups.

We hope some of these tips help you and your child prepare for their first appointment! Please feel free to call our office if you have any questions, or are ready to schedule your child’s first pediatric dentist’s appointment.