One of our littlest patients enjoying her visit to the dentist.
Do you have little ones with tiny teeth in your home, or are you expecting soon? Here are 5 great tips for you to help those tiny tots learn to love taking care of their teeth and have a great experience at the dentist.
1. 1st Tooth or 1st Birthday = 1st Dental Check-Up Visit
Are you wondering when your child’s first dental check up should be? You’re not alone. A lot of people have that question! The best time to start taking kids for dental check-ups is either when their first tooth erupts, or right around their first birthday. While some pediatricians do a basic check in the mouth, not all do, but Dr. Berry and her team are trained to immediately identify any potential issues with the growth and development of the jaw and soft palate. Baby teeth are important for a lifetime of good dental health so it is critical to help ensure those tiny teeth stay healthy!
If your child is a little bit older and hasn’t yet had their first dental visit, it’s never too late. Bring them in as soon as you can!
We also recommend that parents start brushing their child’s teeth as soon as they start coming in, using a soft bristled or baby-safe toothbrush and plain water. The easiest way to create healthy, lasting tooth brushing habits is to start early and be consistent.
2: Let’s Talk Teeth!
It’s never too soon to start introducing children to tooth brushing and oral health. The best time to get started is well before your child’s first dental visit. Children love to learn about their bodies. They love to smile and to touch and explore new things. Many parents and caregivers love to teach children to point to their own eyes, nose, or belly button. Why not add “teeth” and “tongue” to that list? There are also a variety of baby and child-friendly books, crafts, activities, songs, and even apps that can help teach little ones about teeth, tooth brushing, dentists, and healthy smiles. The more comfortable they are with their mouth and teeth, the easier your child’s first dental visit will be.
3: Practice Makes Perfect
Toothbrushing is an important part of our daily self-care and grooming habits, and just like other habits, babies and toddlers learn as they become more independent. A great way to introduce little ones to toothbrushing is to make it a group activity! Parents and siblings can brush their teeth “together” with little ones. It is important to note, though, that toothbrushes are tools, not toys, and that babies and toddlers should be closely supervised. Little ones can practice the motions of brushing their teeth, but ultimately an adult needs to assist them in brushing properly.
Let’s face it – babies and toddlers are not always cooperative, and there may be lots of other things a little one would rather do. We suggest using a “First this, then that” approach to encourage participation. For example, “First, we’ll brush our teeth, then we’ll play a game.” This way, the tooth brushing routine becomes a positive part of the day that is followed by another fun experience.
4: Your Attitude Matters
Babies and toddlers, just like older children, are very perceptive and sensitive to the attitudes and energy of those around them. Children often mirror our behavior. When we are relaxed and happy, children are more likely to be relaxed, too. Children are also more relaxed when they are prepared. Spend time talking to children (yes, even babies and toddlers) about visiting the dentist, in a positive light. Is there a special “going to the dentist” outfit to pick out, or book to bring? You can also spend time reading about visiting the dentist and talking about what the dentist will do, in a positive way. “The dentist will count your teeth,” or “We will show the dentist what a great job you do when you brush.” Older siblings can also help in this area, to serve as a good role model and to talk in a positive way about visiting the dentist for a check-up. You can bring your little one to dental visits to get them used to the sights and sounds of a dental office, and to help them prepare for their own visit.
5: Choose a Great Dental Office That You Trust
The best way to ensure a positive experience for your child is for YOU to have a positive experience. That’s why it’s so important to select a dental office and provider that you trust and feel comfortable with. If YOU trust the dental office, your child will see that and they will have trust as well.
Every child is unique, and will react to their dental check-ups differently. It can be normal for your child to be initially anxious. Utilizing the techniques above will help prepare your child for their first visit. Remember, the goal of the first visit is to get your child comfortable with a dental environment so they have a positive experience each time they visit and are excited to return!
Call 207-465-7300 to schedule a visit or click here to request an appointment.