It’s a well-known fact that most kids have always feared their next trip to the dentist. But it is not just the children who have this fear. Along with sharing the same fear, parents are often worried that the dentist may report that their child has multiple cavities. However, there are ways to help children and their parents view each trip to the dentist as an opportunity to show off their family’s healthy teeth and gums.

Start Early

Developing dental hygiene is a process that starts with encouraging healthy practices at home as soon as a child begins to grow his or her first baby tooth. It is also recommended that parents take their children to the dentist for the first time within a year after their birth. By the time a child is three years old, it is recommended that he or she should be in a routine of visiting the dentist’s office at least every six months.

By visiting the dentist regularly at an early age, problems with teeth’s alignment can be noticed and corrected before they become problems that require expensive solutions. Also, if the dentist notices cavities in a child’s mouth at an early age, this acts as a signal to the parents that either the child’s teeth are not being cleaned properly or the child’s diet needs an adjustment. Whatever the cause, though, correcting a cavity early will prevent future problems from occurring.

Ease Fears

First, parents who are afraid of going to the dentist should never express that fear in front of a child. Also, by beginning a regular routine of taking a child to the dentist at an early age, the child becomes used to the errand. Normally, this early exposure will help reduce any trepidation that a child may have toward his or her dentist.

Parents should try to speak positively at home about the family’s dentist. Also, it does not hurt if the parents talk regularly about the benefits that come in life to those who have nice-looking teeth. Talking about beautiful smiles can help a child’s desire to achieve and maintain his or her own beautiful smile.

Choose the Right Pediatric Dentist

When it comes to picking a child’s dentist, parents should start by looking for dentists who have a history of performing quality dental work. However, possibly even more important, parents should look for dentists who have personalities that their children would feel comfortable being around.

Parents should spend time getting to know all of the employees at a dental office that they are considering for their family. They should ask about the ways that the employees cater to children. This way, when it comes time to take a child to the dentist for the first time, the child will likely notice and reflect his or her parent’s comfortable demeanor at the office.

Stay Involved

Healthy teeth do not just appear without work. Also, healthy teeth can disappear without regular maintenance. When children start practicing their dental hygiene, parents should supervise their techniques when brushing, gargling, and flossing so that they can correct any errors. Also, parents should require that their children brush no less than twice a day. However, encouraging children to brush after every meal is highly recommended.

Along with proper hygiene, parents should make sure that children have healthy diets by eating foods that are not filled with sugar. Overall, parents can influence a child’s future by teaching the importance of maintaining a beautiful smile!