As parents, we all want what’s best for our kids. That’s especially true when it comes to good overall health and good oral health. In order for your child to enjoy healthy teeth and gums, two things are critical: good oral hygiene habits at home and regular trips to the dental office. You can make those dentist office trips a lot more enjoyable if you focus on one thing every kid loves: having fun! Here are a few creative ways to help your child enjoy the next trip to the dentist.
- Choose the right dentist. Make sure your dentist is accustomed to working with children. Select a dentist that markets his or her practice as either a pediatric dentist or one that specializes in family dentistry.
- Take your child on a dental shopping trip. In preparation for his or her trip to the dentist, take your little one to the drugstore to buy a special soft-bristled toothbrush, flavored floss, and toothpaste made especially for kids. Getting ready for the dentist by putting together a special kid-friendly oral hygiene kit will keep your little one excited about brushing and flossing, and later telling the dentist all about it!
- Prepare your child ahead of time with fun and educational books. For a week or two ahead of the dental appointment, choose children’s books at story time that focus on taking care of your teeth or taking a trip to the dentist. Let your little one get used to the idea well ahead of the actual appointment.
- Allow your little one to bring a toy to the dentist’s office. The best choice is something cuddly that your child can hold onto during the dental exam. Having a beloved and familiar toy is a great way to help your child relax during the appointment.
- Help your child choose a costume to wear for the appointment. Last year’s Halloween costume would work, but if you have the time, help create a special dental office costume for your little one. Superheroes, for example, are never afraid of going to the dentist!
- Plan a special reward after the visit. Think of something your child will really enjoy – like a children’s museum or a carnival ride, for example – and tell him or her ahead of time what they can expect after the appointment.
Making trips to the dentist fun for your child is a great way to help them actually look forward to trips to the dentist. Between those regular visits, and helping your little one to maintain a good oral hygiene routine at home, you can help to ensure that your child enjoys a lifetime of good oral health!
