Making your kid’s first trip to the dentist a smooth ride

Every day your little one learns and grows, you witness and celebrate wonderful milestones. Have they achieved their first dental visit yet? This special moment should be one to remember for all the right reasons!

Your child should have their first dental check-up after their first tooth comes in, ideally before their first birthday. This timing matters because even those tiny teeth are vulnerable to cavities. Taking an active approach to dental care by starting early lays the foundation for a lifetime of healthy smiles.

Contemplating bringing your child to the dentist for the first time can feel overwhelming. However, it’s an essential step in keeping their teeth healthy. With the right preparation, you can make this experience positive for them.

Preparing your child

• Age-appropriate explanation: When talking to your child about the dentist, use positive terms like “tooth doctor” or “teeth cleaner” to create a friendly image. Explain that the dentist will check their teeth to keep them healthy and strong. Avoid using frightening words such as “drill” or “needles” to maintain a reassuring tone and ease any anxiety your child may have about the visit.
• Visual aids: To help your child get familiar with the dental office, show them pictures online, focusing on cheerful colours and friendly faces rather than scary tools. You can also engage them by practising counting teeth together, making the experience interactive and enjoyable.
• Practice check-up: Role-playing can be a fun and effective way to reduce your child’s anxieties about the dentist or the procedure. Take turns pretending to be the dentist and gently examine their teeth with a soft toothbrush. Additionally, reading entertaining children’s books about dentist visits and watching educational videos can further familiarise your child with the experience in a lighthearted and informative way.

The big day

Arrival and greeting:

Before it’s time to head out the door to your child’s dental appointment, consider packing a comforting item such as their favourite stuffed animal or cosy blankie to provide a sense of security. Upon arrival at the dentist’s office, encourage your child to explore the waiting room and express what’s on their mind. Point out the vibrant colours and toys, so they get a positive and welcoming feel about this new environment.

Take the opportunity to explain the different roles of the staff members – the receptionist schedules appointments, the hygienist cleans teeth and the dentist is like a tooth superhero! This simple introduction can help your child feel more at ease and understand what to expect during their visit.

Dental examination:

During the dental examination, patience and positive reinforcement play crucial roles. The dentist will likely use a kid-friendly mirror to count your child’s teeth and explain each step gently and engagingly. Celebrate small victories throughout the appointment, such as your child sitting still or following instructions. Encouraging phrases like “You’re doing great!” or “Look at how well you’re sitting!” can increase your child’s confidence and make the experience more comfortable for them.

Cleaning and potential treatments:

When discussing procedures such as fluoride treatment, honesty delivered with gentleness is key. Focus on the positive aspects, explaining how the treatment benefits their teeth, such as making them extra strong. Throughout the process, celebrate your child’s bravery and cooperation, acknowledging their efforts and making them feel proud of themselves.

Addressing potential challenges

Separation anxiety: If your child feels anxious about being apart from you, it’s helpful to discuss this with your dentist beforehand. Depending on their age, you may be able to comfort and reassure them by allowing them to sit on your lap during the exam.

Fear of the unknown: Help your child understand that the dentist is their friend, dedicated to ensuring their smile stays strong and healthy. Reassure them that their dentist will explain everything they’re doing in a friendly and understandable way, and encourage them to ask questions.

Unexpected behaviour: Stay calm and patient! If your child gets anxious or upset during the dental exam, it might not be best to push through. Instead, consider rescheduling for a time when they’re feeling more at ease, keeping in mind any mood patterns they have during a normal day. This approach fosters a positive attitude towards dental visits and helps build trust with their dentist.

Dental care at home

Maintaining healthy teeth and gums begins with dental care at home, focusing on education, oral hygiene and dietary choices. Educate your family about proper dental practices, emphasising the importance of regular brushing, flossing and dental check-ups, as well as the benefits of fluoride.

Practice excellent oral hygiene by brushing with fluoride toothpaste twice daily, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing daily. Choose nutritious snacks and encourage hydration to support oral health, limiting sugary and acidic foods and beverages.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS)

You might be surprised to discover just how much dental care your child is eligible for. The Australian Government’s Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) helps to expand access to basic dental services for eligible children and teenagers aged 0 to 17. This programme covers check-ups, cleans, fillings and more, up to a capped amount over two years (e.g., $1,095 for 2024-2025). Checking your eligibility is simple, and takes just a moment. Visit Services Australia to see if your child qualifies for this valuable assistance. It can make a wonderful difference to the health of their smile for years to come.

Lay the foundation for lifelong dental care