Forming good habits is easily achieved by fostering them when our children are young, and that includes forming good dental habits. Having a positive attitude in regards to the dentist is something that will greatly benefit not just your child’s oral health, but also their overall health in the future. Here are a few tips for getting your children on board with good dental habits.
Starting Early
Although many parents understand that starting good oral hygiene with their children is important, there can often be confusion surrounding when exactly is the right time to begin. Even though the beginning school age is a common time to start teaching children about caring for their teeth, it should actually begin much earlier. Since children begin developing teeth by the age of one, this is the time to have your child visit the pediatric dentist. Of course, pediatric dentists are specifically trained to work with your children, so it’s the best environment for allowing your child to feel comfortable with the dentist and begin to understand that their teeth and mouth are important.
Finding the Right Kid-Friendly Dental Office
Finding a kid-friendly dental office that suits the needs of your child is important. Not all are created equally. You may need to do some research to find a dental office that will provide the right environment and care to keep your child calm and happy. For example, some offices may provide a play section, or books where parents can keep their children busy and comfortable to better enhance their experience and emotions associated with visiting the dentist. Additionally, it is essential to find a dentist who is gentle, patient, and naturally good with children.
The goal is to always have an environment that allows your child to feel safe and comfortable. Asking around through family and friends for recommendations can be helpful for finding the right dental office to provide a pleasant experience for your child.
Use Books and Play
Using story books and playtime to incorporate information about your child’s teeth and visiting the dentist is also a good strategy to tame any notions of fear or apprehension when it’s time for a check up. By using books and playtime, you can help make dental habits fun for your children.
Lead by Example
Children are always looking towards their parents to follow suit and will quickly pick up on your actions. Leading by example is important when it comes to taking proper care with oral health. When it’s time to brush your teeth, get your children involved too by showing them how to follow along.
Starting your children off nice and early with proper dental habits is so important for nurturing their oral development and keeping their teeth and mouth healthy. Finding a kid-friendly dental office is just as important as teaching your children these habits at home.
If it’s time to introduce your child to the dentist, contact The Teal Umbrella to schedule an appointment! We are committed to providing an environment and experience that will give your child the best experience possible when visiting the dentist.
