Creating good dental habits for your child is an important part of their health. However, by the time your child is ready for his or her first dentist visit, they may have developed feelings of uncertainty and fear about going.

Anchorage Dental Center in Alaska has put together some tips on preparing your child for their first visit to help ease their anxiety:

• Pretend: Before your child visits the dentist for the first time, play “dentist” with them. Take turns being the dentist and patient; you can also use dolls or stuffed animals to be patients. This not only allows your child to understand what happens during the dentist visit, but it also allows your child to associate going to the dentist with something positive.        

• Set An Example: Children watch their parents carefully, often taking cues on how to react in certain situations. While brushing and flossing your own teeth, invite them to observe. You can also ask them to come in with you for a part of your own teeth cleaning. The more common dental care is for them, the less fearful they will be when it’s their time to go.
• Listen: Allow your child to talk to you about anything that scares them about going to the dentist. Assure them you will be there the entire time with them. You can also allow them to bring a favorite toy or stuffed animal to the visit.

By preparing your children for their first visit, you will help to make the first visit to the dentist a fun experience. The staff at Anchorage Dental Center is dedicated to helping your entire family feel comfortable about going to the dentist. Visit them online for a list of their services or call them at (907) 278-2521 to schedule an appointment today.