Your Child’s First Trip to the Dentist

Once your child cuts his first tooth, you should start dental hygiene at home — brushing and eventually, once the teeth touch, flossing. Even though all his baby teeth won’t appear until the age of two to two-and-a-half, the best dentist in Asheville will tell you to have your child’s teeth checked as early as on the first birthday. That’s as much to check his baby teeth as it is to get him used to coming into the dentist’s office.

To be honest, a visit to the dentist can upset even a precocious two-year-old. Dentist’s offices often have big spaces filled with strange people, strange noises and strange instruments. But if you visit the best dentist in Asheville, the trip doesn’t have to be scary at all. In fact, it may be a fun experience. Here’s how to make this your reality.

Prepare Before You Arrive

By starting your child brushing at an early age, he’ll get used to the idea of having an object in his mouth. Understanding the notion of dental hygiene in simple terms also provides a reason for the activity. That will make the child’s experience — and the dentist’s job — much easier.

Next, tell your child what to expect. Leave out any mention of the drill, since it may not be necessary on the first visit and since it likely will make your child unduly nervous. But be honest.  Explain that the dentist wants to check his smile, count all his teeth and maybe clean them up a little. Positive language and attitude make a big difference in your child’s perception.

Choose the Right Dentist

The best dentist in Asheville for your child is one who specializes in children’s care. That may not be your own dentist. Find the one who has games in the waiting room, who knows how to make kids smile and who promises a reward at the end.

Do your research. Every town, even those as small as Asheville, has at least one child-friendly dentist. The best dentist in Asheville may or may not be the perfect choice for your child, but it’s better to find one with whom your little guy will connect. Kid-friendly dentists are accustomed to working with children, so you can trust them. If they need your help — to hold the child’s hand, for example — they’ll ask you.

Focus on What’s Important

Instilling good dental habits at an early age translates to good dental habits for a lifetime. It’s worth the extra time, effort and attention to get your child to understand how important it is to have a healthy smile and healthy teeth and gums. Don’t focus on how to survive the day of your child’s first visit to the dentist; think about all the ways to make it a fun experience.

If you scare your child before the visit, even the best dentist in Asheville won’t be able to make the treatment pleasant. It’s up to you to prepare your child. The dentist will take it from there.

—The Zöe Dental Team