Pointers for Parents About Your Child's First Visit

Please:

• Set a good example by brushing and flossing your own teeth every day.
  
  
• Try to make the first dental visit a fun adventure for your child.
  
  
• Be prepared to let your child go into the treatment area alone. At the conclusion of the visit, we will discuss our findings and recommendations with you.
  
  
• Don't bribe your child to go to the dentist or threaten a visit as punishment.
  
  
• Don't let your child know of any anxiety YOU may have about dental visits. Remember, a pediatric dental office will probably be a new experience for you, too.
  
  
• Avoid what appear to be reassuring comments like "Don't worry, the doctor won't hurt you". This serves only to raise your child's anxiety level. Talk about the visit in a positive, matter of fact way.