How to Prepare a Toddler for a Dental Exam

Even though kids lose their baby teeth during childhood, taking care of your toddler's teeth actually protects her gums, jaw and face as well. A biannual visit to the dentist plays a large role in protecting those pearly whites. Parents often expect toddlers to be afraid of the dentist, but when young children are prepared properly, going to the dentist can be an exciting, normal part of growing up.

Things You'll Need

  • Picture books about visiting the dentist

Instructions

    • 1

      Explain to your toddler what will happen in simple, easy-to-understand language. You don't have to give too many details, though. A pediatric dentist is trained to describe dental processes to children in a clear, nonthreatening way.

    • 2

      Role-play a visit to the dentist's office with your child. Doing so can eliminate some of the fear of the unknown.

    • 3

      Read books about going to the dentist with your child. Skim through the books first to make sure that they present the visit in a gentle way.

    • 4

      Talk about how everyone goes to the dentist -- including you, your child's siblings, your child's grandparents. This normalizes the experience and teaches your toddler that going to the dentist is something that's a part of everyone's life.

    • 5

      Listen to your child's fears. If you see that your toddler is still scared of the idea of visiting the dentist, encourage him to talk about it. You may discover that your little one has some misunderstandings that you can clear up.

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