Categories: Pediatric Dentist

Preparing Your Three-Year-Old for a Pediatric Dentistry Visit

Pediatric dentistry appointments are necessary as soon as a child begins to develop their baby teeth. Baby teeth typically erupt around the age of two or three, but this may vary depending on genetics, lifestyle factors and overall health. Generally speaking, teeth will start to show no later than age three. Once this happens, it is necessary to regularly take the child in for pediatric dentistry visits. These visits will include a gentle examination and a quick manual teeth cleaning. While the appointments are quick and simple, some parents may feel uneasy about their child's first appointment. Outlined below are a few tips that parents can utilize when preparing children for their first pediatric dentistry visit.

Tips for preparing a three-year-old child for their first dentist appointment

1. Visit the pediatric dentistry office beforehand

The best way to prepare a child for their first pediatric dentistry visit is to simply take them to the practice beforehand. Children adapt well when they are comfortable. Meeting the dentist and the staff prior to the first appointment can help both parents and children feel more comfortable during the first appointment. It can be helpful to introduce a child to the dental office before the appointment so that when it is time to return for their first pediatric dentistry appointment, they are familiar with the setting and know what to expect. 

2. Explain the steps

A simple way to prepare a three-year-old for their first pediatric dentistry visit is to explain the steps of the appointment. Typically, the first appointment will be very generalized with only a quick examination and a gentle hand-held toothbrush cleaning. More often than not, the three-year-old child will only have a couple of erupted teeth, which means there will not be a whole lot to do. Because of the ease of the procedure, it should be fairly easy for parents to explain the process beforehand.  

3. Address concerns, fears and anxieties

There will likely be concerns about a first-time pediatric dentistry visit, which is completely normal. Children often fear the unknown; when a child has never had a dental appointment before, it is an unknown. Addressing these concerns and going over fears and anxieties prior to the first visit can be helpful. Talking about their concerns can give children a chance to be open and parents the opportunity to combat concerns and offer reassurance. 

4. Take them to an adult appointment

Taking children to an adult dental appointment can be a good way to prepare them for their upcoming pediatric dentistry visit. The adult appointment will show the child that there is nothing to be afraid of. Demonstrations can be done so that the child knows what to expect from their appointment. 

Find out more today

When looking for further tips on preparing children for their first pediatric dentistry visit, it can be helpful to simply reach out to a dental professional. We can address any outstanding questions or concerns that you may have. Additionally, a meet and greet can be scheduled to help ease anxieties among both parents and children. Get in touch today.

Request an appointment here: https://www.starkidsdental.com or call Star Kids Dental & Orthodontics at (818) 483-9064 for an appointment in our Burbank office. 

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentistry in Burbank, CA.

Recent Posts

Pediatric Dentist Near Me: What To Expect At The First Visit

When it comes to your child's dental health, the first visit to a pediatric dentist is a significant milestone. It sets the foundation for a lifetime of healthy oral hygiene habits and helps alleviate any anxiety your child may have about visiting the dentist. If you're searching for a "pediatric dentist near me," it's important…

Preventing Childhood Cavities: Tips And Tricks From A Dentist For Kids

Wondering what a dentist for kids recommends for preventing cavities? Read on to learn more. Parents often have problems getting their kids to practice good oral hygiene. Children’s affinity for sugary treats can make them develop cavities, which can be painful. They can also be susceptible to other dental problems. You can talk to a…

Ask A Pediatric Dentist: When Your Child Should Start Using Toothpaste With Fluoride?

Children, who are particularly prone to tooth decay, should brush their teeth twice a day and make regular visits to a pediatric dentist. These healthy habits can help reduce the risks of developing cavities and serious dental issues. Using fluoride toothpaste is also an important step in childhood dental care that can add an extra…

3 Things To Know About Getting A Baby Root Canal From A Pediatric Dentist

Wondering whether your child needs to undergo baby root canal therapy? Pediatric dentists are dental specialists for children, making it so many parents are choosing to take their child to a pediatric dentist to provide their child with any necessary dental services. Parents can ask this dental professional any questions they have that pertain to…

Star Kids Dental & Orthodontics

Share
Published by
Star Kids Dental & Orthodontics

Recent Posts

How Does Children’s Dental Care Differ From Adult Dental Care?

Is children's dental care different from adult dental care? Read this to learn about the…

3 days ago

Pediatric Dentist Near Me: What To Expect at the First Visit

To ensure your child has a positive experience, try to schedule the visit at a…

1 month ago

How Dental Sealants Help my Child’s Teeth

Find out how dental sealants protect a child’s teeth and learn what teeth should be…

2 months ago

Baby Root Canals: What Parents Need To Know about Saving Baby Teeth

Parents will need to visit the dental office to determine whether their kid needs root…

3 months ago

Preventing Childhood Cavities: Tips and Tricks From a Dentist for Kids

A positive attitude toward oral health results in better habits for life.

4 months ago

Braces for Teens: What Are Your Options?

The most popular types of braces for teens are metal braces, ceramic braces, lingual braces,…

5 months ago