Children’s Dentist Shares Seven Ways to Make Your Child’s First Dental Appointment a Success

At Strongsville Smile Keepers, Dr. Matt Gaebelein and our skilled team proudly offer services to adults and children in Strongsville, Ohio. Our dental office helps patients of all ages get the gentle dental care they need. If your child is due for a dental visit and you are curious about what you can do to make the entire process a positive experience, we invite you to book a consultation visit or continue reading to learn some tips and recommendations from our skilled team of professionals.

1. Start early. Introducing your child to the dentist early helps them get comfortable with the environment and builds a positive association. The earlier they begin, the easier it becomes to normalize dental visits as a regular part of life. Consider scheduling their first visit when their child reaches an emotionally mature age of three, meaning that your child is capable of sitting still and following instructions during the dental visit.
2. Be positive and cheerful. Your attitude sets the tone for the visit! Talk about visiting the dentist in an upbeat and cheerful way, saying things like, “Dr. Gaebelein is going to count your shiny teeth!” Avoid using words like “pain,” “shots,” or “drills.” A positive outlook can ease any initial anxiety your child may feel.
3. Role play at home. Make a game out of pretending to be at the dental office. Use a toothbrush to “examine” each other’s teeth while taking turns acting as the patient and the dentist. This playful practice helps your child understand what to expect so they feel more confident when the real appointment comes around.
4. Timing is important. Plan your child’s dental appointment for a time of day when they’re well-rested and in a good mood. Morning appointments work best for many kids since they’re fresh and less likely to get cranky. A happy child means less stress for everyone involved!
5. Ask us about an appointment in our “Under The Sea” Room. Created especially with your child in mind, our custom painted room brings lots of fun sea life to the dental office! Even the lights have colorful fish designs to admire!
6. Bring some comfort items along. If your child has a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or personal toy, feel free to bring it along. Familiar items provide comfort and security, making an unfamiliar setting more welcoming.
7. Reward their bravery. After the visit, celebrate your child’s bravery by providing a small reward, like extra time at the park, a fun sticker, or even their choice of a bedtime story. This positive reinforcement helps them view dental appointments as rewarding experiences, encouraging healthy habits for years to come.

Learn more about preparing for your child’s upcoming dental hygiene appointment with a dentist “near me” in the Strongsville, OH, area

By practicing these simple tips from our team, you can ensure your child’s first visit to the dentist is a stress-free and successful experience! Call (440) 268-8852 to schedule your child’s initial appointment with Dr. Matt Gaebelein and our team at Strongsville Smile Keepers.