What if taking your kids to your Las Vegas, NV pediatric dentist could actually be fun? Believe it or not, that’s not as far-fetched as it may sound. Here are a few ways you can get your child excited for their dental check-ups.
Kids aren’t always comfortable going into new environments, but introducing them to the dental team early on can produce an entirely different experience. The American Dental Association and our Las Vegas pediatric dentist recommend that children should have their first dental visit no later than six months after their first tooth appears or around their first birthday, whichever comes first.
Kids love going to the playground or the ice cream parlor because they know something super fun awaits them. That same logic is why so many pediatricians stock lollipops to hand out after immunizations. It’s great if you can take your child to a pediatric dentist in Las Vegas, NV where you can help promote a positive association by linking dental checkups with something fun like a new coloring book to use in the waiting room or a YouTube playlist that kids can watch during their cleaning.
A lot of tantrums can be linked to children feeling like they’ve lost control. From fighting for the right to wear shorts in December to refusing to eat anything green, kids want to have a say, so give it to them! Use a calendar and some smiling tooth stickers (easy to find at craft stores or online) to track good hygiene habits and then create a “report card” your child can take back to their Las Vegas dental office. Remember, pride can be a powerful motivator, and who doesn’t want to show off a perfect teeth-cleaning streak?
Above all, remember that your child gets his or her cues from you. If you’re anxious about how a dental appointment is going to go, your child might reflect that anxiety. Get excited about your kids’ dental health and those good habits are likely to catch on, too.
This information is not meant as medical advice. It is provided solely for education. Our pediatric dental office in Las Vegas, NV, would be pleased to discuss your unique circumstances and needs as they relate to these topics. To schedule your child’s pediatric dental appointment, give us a call at 702.268.7132 or click here.
