Tips for Taking a Toddler to the Dentist for the first Time

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You probably wish it were you going to the dentist instead of your toddler, but unfortunately it is an experience we all must face. Different steps can help to ease the experience of a toddler’s first visit to the dentist.
Prepare your child
Your quest in making the dentist trip easier commences even before you get there. First, you may want to read your toddler stories about visiting the dentist. How much he or she understands will depend upon his or her age, but it may ease fears that they are experiencing. You will find many different books on this subject with a wide range of characters. Make sure to get one that is age appropriate.
They also have television programs that relate to a visit to the dentist. This may calm them. You can also talk to them about it. Some parents will even take their toddlers with them when they visit the dentist themselves so that they can see that it is not so bad (obviously do not take them to see a root canal).
Pick a good time
Do not take an exhausted child to the dentist. Instead find a time that they are generally happy.
Do not show your anxiety
Children often learn how to behave by watching their parents. If you act like you are scared to death of them visiting the dentist, then they may feel this way. Instead show confidence. Show that you are comfortable and happy. Talk about the dentist as being a fun place to be. Use fun words such as letting the dentist “tickle their teeth.”
Hold your child if necessary
Your toddler may refuse to sit still to let the dentist work. They may feel the most safe in your arms, however. One strategy might be to get on the chair first and then hold your child on top of you. Not only will they be comforted but you can help make sure that they are in the right position to help the visit progress quicker.
Reward your child
Oftentimes a visit to the dentist is not as painful as it is scary for a toddler. You want them to associate the visits with positive things instead. You can bring along a toy or present and promise that they will get it after the visit. Many dentists give away stickers or other little prizes as well. They may think more about the reward than the actual trip.
Visiting the dentist with a toddler can be difficult. Heed the above tips to aid you through this process.