Have you ever wondered what makes some people absolutely riddled with fear when it comes to the dentist? Sometimes, they had a pediatric dentist that left a scar; other times, it’s a bit inexplicable.
If you want to avoid making this a lifelong fear for your children, there are a few ways you can ward off panic. By asking the right questions, you can help gear your children up for a lifetime of successful dental visits.
Below, we’ve outlined ten useful questions that will help prepare both you and your child. You’ll find that dentists like to start off slow and easy, and perform basic exams to understand the lay of the land.
After the first visit, know you’ve done something wonderful for your child; you’ve taught him or her that there’s value in caring for our teeth. Without further ado, let’s examine ten helpful questions before your first office visit.
1. How Do I Help My Child Combat Fear?
No parent wants to walk their child into a fearful situation. One of the best things you can do is not build it up too much. Keep it simple; don’t include too many details; remain positive. This will help your child go through the motions with little fear of what’s to come.
If you want to provide some level of detail, try to explain how dentists protect peopl against cavities, which are very painful. So, they’re much more our battle fighter and protector than a big, bad wolf.
2. What Happens During a First Visit?
A typical dentist visit includes a brief examination of the teeth, gums, and jaws. Then, a fluoride varnish is provided to help strengthen the teeth.
Pediatric dentistry calls for a smooth, easy visit the first time around so children can see it’s not such a bad thing. Not only that, regular dental checkups can prevent a world of future pain.
3. What Kind of Toothpaste Should I Use?
Since children have a tendency to swallow toothpaste, they should be using children’s toothpaste. The market is flooded with options, but the goal is to use a low-fluoride paste.
A lot of them are labeled ages two to six because that’s the age group that tends to swallow more toothpaste than they use. And, while you’re out shopping for toothpaste, you can purchase a children’s toothbrush with small, soft bristles.
4. When Should We Begin Flossing?
Reports continue to emerge, stating that flossing can save our lives. That’s quite a feat! So, it’s important to drive home this practice as soon as possible and create a love for good oral health.
If your child has no visible gaps in their teeth, then they can typically begin flossing. And, since the advent of floss picks, this has become a far easier task.
5. Why Do Baby Teeth Matter?
Some parents wonder why they need to explore a dentist for kids because baby teeth are just going to fall out anyway. The truth is, good dental care starts young and baby teeth matter just as much as adult teeth.
They’re indicators for what the adult teeth will look like. As with flossing, it’s something you want to make a regular part of your child’s life from the early stages.
6. Are X-Rays Safe for Children?
Dental X-rays pose little risk to children and adults. The amount of radiation that’s produced is nominal. Ask your dentist if they use digital X-rays, which expose patients to even less radiation.
Typically, dental X-rays are called for until after the age of five (unless there’s been some sort of trauma). Seven is a good age to start looking below the surface to ensure there aren’t any areas that require extra attention.
7. What If My Child Has a Toothache?
If your child ever has a toothache, rinse the area out with warm saltwater and help them avoid sugary foods. If their face starts to swell, place a cold compress on the affected area.
You might consider offering them a children’s pain reliever, but don’t attempt to place any sort of pain reliever on the gum line or teeth. See if any of these tactics help the pain subside. Then, put in a call to your dentist, asking for immediate availability.
8. Should We Pull Loose Teeth?
Who hasn’t wiggled a tooth or two in their childhood, wondering if it’ll ever fall out? But, the truth is, this is one of the worst things we can do to ourselves.
Pulling a tooth that isn’t ready to naturally fall out can cause tissue damage. In that case, we replace a little discomfort with a whole lot of pain. Make sure you teach your child never to force out a loose tooth.
9. How Do We Prevent Tooth Decay?
Tooth decay and yellowing teeth can be prevented. One of the first ways to combat these issues is to examine your child’s diet. Limiting their intake of sugary snacks and drinks will help prevent tooth decay.
The next best thing you can do is model good habits. Brush your teeth and floss with your children at night. Turn on soft, soothing music and make this a part of each night’s routine.
Show them how flossing can help prevent bad breath and teach them to care for their teeth from the moment they burst through the gumline.
10. How Often Should We Come for Checkups?
You’ll find that most pediatric dentists follow the six-month rule. The first time a child should visit a dentist is six months after their first tooth appears.
Then, just like adults, a good rule of thumb for a dentist visit is every six months. This will help combat cavities and a variety of other dental issues.
The Best Pediatric Dentist for You
Finding the right pediatric dentist for your little one can be a bit of a task. You want to find a safe, clean office environment with a wonderful, helpful staff.
If you live in the Fort Worth, TX area, we invite you to give us a call! Here at Kids Stop Dental, we help you give your children the happy, healthy smile they deserve.
Dentistry plays a major role in the development of your child’s appearance and well-being, and we’re here to advise you on the best course of treatments (at home and in-office).
Feel free to schedule an appointment with us online. We look forward to inviting you and your little ones into our safe, friendly, and encouraging environment for years to come.