How to prepare for your dental office visit
Remember, the main goal is to have a fun and easy dental visit with your child and to introduce him or her to our dental clinic. Tell your child about the visit, but don’t get into detail. Let the dentist answer his or her questions about the visit and the tools and technology used in dentistry.
We use kid-friendly terms to explain procedures so that your child isn’t frightened and learns to view a visit to the dentist as a good experience. Try not to pass on your fears by telling about any unpleasant experience you have had in the past. Dentistry has changed and is more sensitive to patient needs – particularly the needs of children. Children are not born with a fear of the dentist, but their fears may stem from the “unknown” or the thought of being separated from a parent during treatment. We can help set them at ease.
Please remember to bring a list of your child’s medication with you at appointment time. We are looking forwards to meeting you and your child and establishing a lasting relationship.
What to expect during you first visit
Our Team will do the following:
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Ensure your child is comfortable and answer his or her questions.
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Introduce them to some of the dental instruments commonly used so they don’t fear what is put into their mouth.
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Help them to understand dental “talk” or terminology so they understand their own dental health. We do a cavity risk assessment for each patient so they learn the importance of good oral hygiene.
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Examine the gums and soft tissue for disease or problems.
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Examine your child’s teeth for decay.
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Evaluate tooth and bone growth and the way the teeth fit together, also known as “the bite”.
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Identify any habits that can affect their growth.
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Show you and your child how to properly clean your child’s teeth at home.
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During recall appointments, check areas that are missed during brushing by using a disclosing tablet (a chewable tablet that defines plaque in a bright colour so we can see how well they are brushing.)
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Take pictures inside the mouth to explain and show any area of concern.
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Answer all your questions and address concerns.
Why is it Important to keep primary teeth healthy?
Primary teeth, or baby teeth, are as important as permanent, or adult teeth. A child usually has all of his or her primary teeth by the age of 3. They usually lose them all by age 12 or 13. Baby teeth are more than just space holders for permanent teeth. They play an important role by:
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Helping to maintain good nutrition by allowing children to chew properly. Decayed and missing teeth make it difficult or painful for a child to chew food.
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Aiding in the development of clear speech and normal facial appearance.
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Decaying or infected baby teeth can damage developing permanent teeth. Healthy primary teeth, and good oral hygiene give permanent teeth a strong foundation for growth.
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Preventing unnecessary pain to a child from decaying teeth.
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A healthy smile boosts a child’s self confidence.
