The Canadian Dental Association recommends that parents bring their children to the dentist around the time their very first tooth appears in order to assess their oral health and catch potential issues early on. This also helps establish a sense of normalcy; a visit to the dentist ought to be a positive experience for your child, and early exposure to a warm, friendly clinic environment is extremely valuable.
Early dental visits allow a dentist to determine whether your child’s teeth are coming in properly and address any cavities before they become a bigger issue. A dentist can also explain to parents how to properly care for their children’s teeth, which requires a particularly gentle touch during the early years.
Children can sometimes be nervous about going to the dentist, so it’s important to show them that there’s nothing to be afraid of! One simple tip is to use positive language when talking about dental visits as well as oral care in general. Be encouraging and reaffirm the benefits– like how great it feels to have healthy gums and teeth! You can also:
- take them on a quick tour the clinic before their appointment to help them develop a sense of familiarity
- role play as dentists at home to teach them a bit about the process
- make sure they’ve eaten before their visit to help them stay calm
- stay in the room during the appointment
Another key element is choosing a dental team that is warm, friendly, and patient with children. At Pur, we’re proud to say that ensuring our patients’ comfort — no matter their age — is a vital part of our identity as a clinic. Book your child’s appointment today!
955 boul. Saint-Jean #302, Pointe-Claire, QC H9R 5K3