According to a study found at the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, just about 59% of 473 patients that were researched had a form of dental phobia. Can you imagine the percentage of patients that haven’t been documented? Or possibly how your child may feel visiting the dentist for the first time? It’s important not just for your child’s comfort, but for their future dental health to understand that their children’s dentist in Wichita Falls is here to keep their smiles strong and bright. Here are some things that you can do to help your children feel good about visiting their dental office.
1. It’s important to bring your children while they’re young.
The American Dental Association has set a standard of care that children should begin seeing their dentist as early as one-year old, or when their first tooth erupts. Taking your child is an excellent way to build a comfortable, friendly, long-lasting relationship with their dentist from early on. But, that’s not the only advantage! When your children visit the dentist, parents have the opportunity to learn more about their child’s mouth development.
2. Keep a consistent dental routine at home.
By practicing good dental habits as early as they become a part of your family, your child will already be comfortable with someone working inside their mouth. The idea of having an unfamiliar dentist may still seem uninviting to your little one, but we believe that their dental appointments will go much smoother the more you make dental hygiene apart of their daily lives.
3. Make dentistry fun for your children!
It can be difficult to keep children engaged—especially when it comes to dental education. There are countless animated videos that will lightheartedly explain the positive aspects of dentistry while grabbing their attention. Try YouTube out!
Another fun way of learning about dentistry may be interactive books or reviewing images that promote positive dentistry. Be sure to visit your local library or bookstore to find information on oral care.
4. Your kids look up to you. Lead by example!
A really good way to help make your son or daughter comfortable with dental appointments is to bring them along with you to your own dental appointments. If they have older siblings, kids usually get a kick out of watching their brave older brother or sister courageously sit in the dental chair.
It’s best to start their dental journey now.
Doing your best to make your son or daughter feel safe and comfortable before and during their first dental important can leave a lasting impression on how they view dental care, even as an adult.
About the Office
Our friendly office team loves serving out patients of all ages. Not only do we provide preventive dental care before dental problems get out of hand, but we do the same for the youngest members of your family. It’s important to communicate that Dr. Strohman is here to help them, not hurt them! If you need to schedule your child’s first appointment, visit us here or give us a call at (940) 613-0299.