Most children will happily go out for a movie and a bucket of popcorn. They can’t wait to head out for pizza or the local fast food restaurant, and they absolutely love a trip to the ice cream store. Many adults feel the same. But going to the dentist? That’s another matter entirely.

If you could use some help getting your children to visit the dentist, here are five tips to encourage your child to visit the dentist. Might not be quite as easy as a pizza run, but could possibly save you some grief.

Be a Positive Role Model

As a parent you are well aware that your children watch everything you do and listen to everything you say. That can actually be embarrassing at times. They aspire to model and emulate you, both the positive and the negative. If you take your oral hygiene seriously, they will too.

Make sure that you brush your teeth at least twice a day, faithfully floss at least once a day and use a mouth wash or oral rinse. If they observe you regularly following an oral hygiene routine, it will surely make it easier to encourage them to do the same.

Explain the Importance of Good Oral Hygiene Habits

Most kids learn the word “why” at a fairly early age. Their inquisitive minds like to understand. So here is the perfect opportunity to answer all the “whys.”

• By brushing and following the routine you are rewarded with a beautiful smile.
• Following these good habits will reduce or eliminate any cavities.
• It helps to remove the invisible bad bacteria called plaque from your teeth and gums.
• When you hug and kiss them, or anyone else in the family, you want to have good breath not bad.
• Explain how you go to the dentist regularly so your teeth can stay extra strong and clean.
• Flossing your teeth is an extra step you take so none of the food and bacteria is left between your teeth or near your gums. Then show them how you floss doing a section at a time.

Find a Child Friendly Dentist

Don’t assume that all dental offices are equipped to handle young children. Oakville Place Dental Office provides a welcoming environment for children of all ages. The staff is committed to making their visit pleasant, stress-free and educational.

Whether it’s their very first visit to a dentist, a check-up, or due a painful tooth or cavity, it is essential to bring your child to place that is non-threatening.

Kids recognize sincerity and they will instantly know they are in a safe place at Oakville.

Their caring atmosphere puts children at ease and will help your little ones forget their fears.

Have Them Practice Good Habits

Before you take your child to the dentist for the first time, let them practice at home with you or their toys. They can watch as you brush and do the same in front of the mirror. Let them brush your teeth and look inside your mouth.

If you have a tiny mirror, show them how the dentist will see inside their mouth. Give them every opportunity to learn good habits.

Accentuate the Positive

Always let your children know when you are going to the dentist for a regular check-up, and never make your visit to the dentist sound like a chore. Remember how they mirror what you do.

• Always let them see how clean your teeth are after the visit.
• Remind them how it helps to keep your teeth healthy and strong.
• Explain how these visits will maintain your beautiful smile for them and for everyone else in the family.
• Stress to them that having healthy teeth takes daily care.
• Tell them how happy you are that your parents taught you these habits.
• Now you want them to learn these same daily habits because it will keep their teeth healthy and strong as they grow up.

Bring Your Children to the Dentist Early

Most children are fearful of the unknown and it’s just a fact that the more familiar we are with something, the easier it becomes.

Start bringing your child to see the dentist prior to kindergarten. It will help them become accustomed to the routine, acquainted with the staff, and learn what happens during a visit. All this will equal a less stressful experience for them and for you.

Let us know some of your own tips to encourage your child to visit the dentist.

If it’s time for your little one to visit the dentist, choose a practice which caters to youngsters like Oakville Place Dental Office