Removing The Stress Of Your Children’s First Trip To The Dentist

Child at Dentist photo

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Child at Dentist photo

Teething is a hot topic amongst parents of small children. Once their teeth finally appear, another worry is the first dental visit for your child, and with twins or multiples these concerns are multiplied. The American Dental Association recommends that you take your child to the dentist for the first time after their first tooth appears and no later than their first birthday. This is even more important for preemies as there is evidence to show that premature birth may lead to childhood dental problems. But what can you do to calm those pre-dental trip nerves?

Find A Pediatric Dentist

Start off by looking for a pediatric dentist. Ask family or friends in local mom’s groups for recommendations. A good pediatric dentist will be calm and gentle, making dental treatment fun and interesting for your children and will form a good partnership with you. You should feel comfortable asking your dentist questions about every aspect of your children’s dental treatment.

Worried About The Cost?

Choosing a dental plan can be an overwhelming experience, so talk to your dentist about your children’s plan, costs, limitations and emergency treatment. If you are working, then investigate the health coverage you have through your job to see if it covers your children. If the cost of dental treatment for your children seems unmanageable then dental treatment for your children may be covered by Medicaid. Note that each state has differing income eligibility rules so do your local research.  

The First Dental Visit

Once that first tooth has finally made an appearance it is time to schedule that first dental visit. Timing is everything, try to avoid nap times or mealtimes or a time of day when your child is usually grumpy. To save time on the day, ask for any forms to be mailed to you in advance so you can fill them out while you are home.

On the day itself, remember extra diapers, snacks or your children’s favorite reassuring toys and talk about the dental visit with your children making it sound like a fun, exciting outing. If you are feeling very nervous, then ask a friend of family member to come with you. The dentist will talk through your children’s oral health, examine your children’s mouths, and they may clean your children’s teeth. During the dental visit, talk to your dentist and ask plenty of questions.

So you are done and you have survived your first dental visit, now it is time to kick back and relax…until the next time.