How to Introduce Kids to the Dentist

Going to the dentist for the first time can be a little scary for a child. You can help your child have a better dentist visit by preparing him for it and making it exciting. Explain exactly what to expect and what the dentist will probably do while your child is sitting in the dentist's chair.

Things You'll Need

• Phone books
• Pictures of dentist tools
• Books
• Videos

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Instructions

• 1

  Look through the dentist entries in the phone book. Find dentists that specialize in working with children.

• 2

  Ask your friends and family members where they take their own children and ask for recommendations for the best kids' dentists in your neighborhood.

• 3

  Talk to your kids about the dentist. Explain that a dentist is a doctor that takes care of teeth. Show your child, as he brushes his teeth, what the dentist might do. Repeat this process for three or four days before the dentist visit to help your child understand exactly what to expect.

• 4

  Show your child some of the tools that the dentist may use. These may be a little scary-looking when a child first sees them. Find pictures online or in books.

• 5

  Read books from the library about other children visiting the dentist for the first time. Make sure your child understands that there is nothing to be afraid of and that the dentist will not hurt her.

• 6

  Watch videos, which can be picked up at the library, with your child to help him understand what will happen at the dentist.

• 7

  Offer your child a reward if she behaves at the dentist to give her incentive and something to look forward to.