The first visit to the dentist does not have to be scary or stressful. It’s an opportunity to put your child at ease, but it requires proper preparation. Our guide will help parents introduce their child to the world of dentistry in a gentle way.
Getting your child used to going to the dentist should start early. The first visit should be scheduled when your child is about 2 years old. At this age, your child will be able to communicate and cooperate with the dentist. Earlier, during the teething period, it is a good idea to arrange an adjustment visit so that the child can get used to the office and the parents can learn about oral hygiene and proper nutrition for young children.
It is important to remember that the first visit should be scheduled before any dental work is needed. Regular check-ups are the key to paediatric dentistry. The dentist will assess the child’s bite and monitor any developing caries problems. The first visit to the dentist will leave a lasting impression on the child, so it is important to ensure that the visit is not associated with stress and pain.
Sometimes it is not the children but the parents who feel stressed, especially before their child’s first visit to the dentist. This stress can be passed on to children, making them more anxious about going to the dentist. As a parent, it’s worth staying calm and giving your child a positive attitude towards going to the dentist, avoiding negative associations and fears. A professional dentist who specialises in working with children can help your child feel comfortable during the visit and minimise any stress.
That’s why it’s a good idea to trust and work with specialists to ensure your child has a positive dental experience.
At Galeria Uśmiechu Gliwice we have a unique approach to children. We help parents prepare their children for a visit to the dentist by offering a two-stage preparation. The first stage is the preparation at home and the second stage takes place in the dental surgery. This is our way of making our youngest patients feel comfortable and safe.
How a child perceives a visit to a dental centre is very important. It is worthwhile for the dentist to try to evoke positive associations and feelings in the young patient even before the visit.
One of the best ways to prepare a child for a dental visit is to play dentist at home.
It’s a good idea to make the home environment a place where the child feels comfortable and at ease. The child’s favourite teddy bear can also be a patient in the dental play. This can make a visit to the dentist much more pleasant and less stressful for the child.
At Galeria Uśmiechu Gliwice we start the treatment of each young patient with a familiarisation visit. During this visit the dentist does not perform any procedures, but gives the child an opportunity to get acquainted with the surgery, the chair and the dental equipment.
