Your First Trip To the Dentist

Many children are anxious about their first trip to the dentist. But with preparation and a little planning, most children can have a pleasant first encounter with the dentist. We spoke with veteran Triangle dentists and put together this guide for easing into your child's first dental visit.

Choose a Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist specializes in the care of children's teeth and he have two to three years more training to meet his clients needs. At a pediatric dentistry office, the staff is trained to work exclusively with children. They're typically much better at helping young patients through new experiences. Their offices are designed for children. Plus, having other children present often helps a child feel more comfortable. In the Triangle, Wake Orthodontics + Pediatric Dentistry in Raleigh and Garner and Carolina Pediatric Dentistry in Wake Forest specialize in the care of children's teeth.

Relax & Don't Share Your Fears

If you're nervous, your child may pick up on your anxiety. It's important to communicate positive ideas about the dentist and dentistry to your child. Describe him as a friendly tooth counter or smile cleaner, and never use a trip to the dentist as a threat when you're brushing teeth or trying to get your child to avoid sweets. These subtle messages are powerful, make them positive.

Talk, Read, Role Play and Play Games.

Remember that for your child, the unknown is typically much scarier than the reality. Help your child gain a sense of what to expect during his visit to the dentist. Talk to your child about what to expect and explain what will happen in simple, concrete language. Let him know that the dentist will 'count' his teeth, 'brush' his teeth with a noisy toothbrush, or 'take pictures' of his teeth. Visit http://www.ada.org/public/games/story.asp and 'Visit the Dentist with Marty.' There's a story to read, complete with audio, and together you can investigate the objects in a dentist office. Play with dentist Barbie, play Crocodile dentist together, or just count one another's teeth. Then, check out one of these terrific reads from your local library:

Open Wide: Tooth School Inside by Laurie Keller

Dora, Show Me Your Smile by Christine Ricci

Harry and the Dinosaurs say "Raahh!" by Ian Whybrow

The Berenstein Bears Visit the Dentist by Stan Berenstein, Jan Berenstein

Caillou, A Visit to the Dentist by Johanne Mercier

Do Some Advance Work

The waiting room can be an anxiety producing experience for kids who don't know what to expect. Ask your child's dentist to send any paperwork ahead of time. This will drastically cut down on the time your child has to spend waiting.