It is important for your child to visit the dentist regularly, as possible problems can be identified early on and you will also get your child used to the dentist so that he or she will not be afraid of the dentist in the future.
Your child’s first visit to the dentist should be made when their first teeth appear, so that the dentist can observe their teeth, explain the correct way to brush your child’s teeth and which products to use.
First of all, it is important to choose the right pediatrician for your child.
Follow his or her recommendations and make sure he or she is right for your child.
Once you have scheduled a visit to your chosen doctor, talk to your child about what is going to happen.
This prepares him for what is to come and reduces his anxiety about this new thing that is to be done for him.
If you notice that your child is not keen on the idea and is reluctant, cancel the visit and reschedule when you think your child is ready.
During your child’s first visit, your dentist will perform an evaluation of your child’s teeth, gums, jaw, the way your child closes his or her mouth and oral tissues to see if there are any problem areas that need attention.
Depending on the assessment, a light cleaning or an x-ray may be recommended.
Your dentist will also discuss your role in your child’s oral health, your child’s oral development, caries risk factors and how you can care for your child’s teeth at home.
To make sure you get all the information you need, you can prepare a set of questions before your appointment.
The first appointment with the doctor should not take long and is designed to familiarize your child with the dentist and the dental practice. Your child’s carer can sit with your child in the surgery or stay in the waiting room, depending on your child’s preference.
Children usually imitate the habits they see in their parents. So, it is important that you also have good oral hygiene, so that your children follow your example.
They may also sense your emotions or fear about the dentist, so it’s good to have a positive attitude towards your child and not show your fears.
When good oral habits are developed from an early age, there is little chance that they will be lost over time.
Brushing the child should be done every day, with the parent doing it in the early stages, after which the child will brush himself, supervised by the parent.
Visits to the dentist will be made twice a year, every 6 months, if no problems occur.
In conclusion, your child’s visits to the dentist should be prepared in advance, pleasant, without fear and anxiety, when he/she willingly accepts this visit.
Under no circumstances should the child be forced, because then he or she will develop feelings of rejection towards the dentist and the medical act.
