PREPARING CHILDREN FOR THEIR FIRST DENTAL

APPOINTMENTRoderick Garcia DMD

Introduction Roderick Garcia, DMD, oversees his own clinic in

Albuquerque, New Mexico, where he commits to delivering the highest-quality patient care. Roderick Garcia treats patients of all ages, including children.

Since a child’s first visit to the dentist may be daunting, parents may want to consider some ways to make the appointment more comfortable. First, parents may want to make a pre-appointment visit. They may want to make a visit to the dentist’s office prior to the appointment for a tour of the facilities, if the office allows it. This will give the child a chance to meet the staff and become familiar with the office and the dentist. 

First Dental Appointment Before the appointment, parents should discuss it

with their children in a positive way. Parents should treat the visit as a simple and positive routine. They should avoid using words such as “needle” or “drill” that could make children fearful. Maintaining a positive attitude prior to the appointment can make the experience easier and less frightening for nervous children. 

Moreover, parents should consider bringing a toy from home for the appointment. Parents can help to make their children to feel more comfortable by allowing them to bring a favorite toy or blanket.