Even adults feel some apprehension before a visit to the dentist, so it’s only understandable that a child would become nervous and agitated when getting into the dentist’s chair for the first time. But since dental care from an early age is key, it’s important to find ways to make your child comfortable. At Four Corners Dental Group, with branches in both Anchorage and Wasilla, Alaska, the team of friendly and sensitive dentists provides a number of suggestions for making your child’s first dentist visit a success.

Here are three tips for making your children feel more comfortable during their first visit to the dentist office:

• Educate Your Children Beforehand: Your children will feel more at ease if they have been adequately prepared in advance and know what to expect. Explain to your child what the dentist will be doing, including an examination of the teeth and gums and routine polishing. To make the dentist less scary, read books together about the subject. You can even try role-playing as a way for them to understand how the process works.
• Set A Good Example: Children, especially when they are around the age of four or five, can be particularly inclined to imitate their parents. If your children see you brushing and flossing with care and enthusiasm, they may become equally eager to take care of their own teeth. Talk to them about your experiences with the dentist; if they know you’ve been through it too, it may not seem as intimidating to them. 
• Be Smart About Timing: Young children can be temperamental and cranky during specific times of the day. Avoid making dentist appointments during the time windows that you know will be more difficult, such as right before nap time or when they haven’t eaten. Go to the dentist office when they are well rested and fed.

To make an appointment with a reliable and gentle pediatric dentist, contact Four Corners Dental Group in Anchorage at (907) 258-3384; to reach the Wasilla office, call (907) 376-2790. If you’d like to learn more tips about dental care and prepping your child for their first dentist visit, check out the practice’s website and Facebook page.