How to Prepare Children for Dental Appointments

Many parents ask me how to prepare their child before they come to the dentist for the first time. Dr. Andrew Beuttenmuller at Watertown Pediatric Dentistry says, "Tell your kids to be excited about going to the dentist. It's going to be fun at our office.  And please don't tell your kids any stories about past bad experiences." On the PBS website, they pass along tips help you prepare your little one. Below are some of the suggestions but to read them all go here. 

Be Patient. Give Choices. Then Go

"Allow plenty of time to get out the door, so battles don't escalate because you are late. Offer choices like, 'Do you want to bring your book or headphones?' or if necessary, 'Would you like to walk to the door or shall I carry you?' Then go." Susanna Neumann, Ph.D.  Psychologist Consultant, Rockefeller University, New York City

Plan Something Fun After the Visit

"Instead of bribing or threatening a young child into going to the doctor, ask him what fun thing he would like to do afterwards. Use this as an incentive, rather than a reward for good behavior, because it's normal for young kids to get upset during the visit." Dr. Benjamin Kligler Associate Medical Director, The Continuum Center for Health and Healing, New York City