Helpful Tips to Convince Your Children to Come to the Dentist for a Checkup
It is common for children to not love the idea of visiting the dentist, yet if they do not do so they could end up facing serious dental issues in the future. As a parent, it is important to remember that their relationship with their dentist as a child will affect your child’s relationship with dental health for the rest of their lives. If you are worried that your children will not want to visit the family dentist, follow these tips. Then contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 to make an appointment for them.
Start Taking Them to the Dentist as Early as Possible
Children are often afraid of things they are unfamiliar with. If you begin to take your child to the dentist as soon as they are old enough, then they will become used to the dentist. They will only associate it with a fun outing with mom or dad. Most dentists suggest bringing in your child as soon as they start showing their first tooth.
Make Sure They Know What to Expect
Before you head to the dentist, talk to your child about what they are likely to experience. Tell them that the dentist is going to examine and clean their teeth to ensure they are in the best possible condition. Keep your talk positive, do not go into too much detail, and don’t make promises you can’t keep. For example, don’t say that it won’t hurt because you don’t know what services they may end up needing.
Ensure Your Children Know the Benefits of Visiting the Dentist
It may be that your child simply needs to know why it is important for them to visit the dentist. Tell them how important their oral health is and how important the dentist is to keep their oral health in good shape. Talk to them about the purpose and importance of brushing, flossing, and other oral health steps. Remind them that not only do these actions help keep teeth and gums healthy, but they can help keep their breath fresh too.
Talk to Them about the Risks of Not Going to the Dentist
Not only is it important for your kids to know what they gain by going to the dentist, but it can be important for them to know what they risk by choosing not to go. Visiting the dentist every six months ensures that tartar and plaque buildup is removed. Not doing so can cause gum disease, which is the top reason for tooth loss in the country. Note as well that there are health issues that may go untreated and undiagnosed if your child does not visit the dentist regularly.
Once you get your child in the habit of visiting the dentist every six months, you will be increasing the chance of them continuing the habit for the rest of their life. Contact California Dental Group at (800) 407-0161 if you would like to make an appointment.
