Guest Post

Making going to the dentist fun for the kids requires some creativity, but it is well worth the happy reception that is generated and the easier ability to work on a child’s teeth.

1. Books that make the dental visit fun

Both at home before the visit and in the reception area of the dentist’s office, appropriate story books that can be read to the child alleviate many of the worries that the child has about this worrisome activity. Books about the tooth fairy, animals or young children or cartoon characters going to the dentist and having work done and other such subjects will answer some of the child’s questions.

2. A toy box or aquarium in the reception room

Having a variety of toys in a brightly colored playroom atmosphere for children to play with while in the waiting room can be helpfully distracting. Perhaps puppets can also be included, and the parent and child can use them to create a scene about having fun at a dentist’s office. Watching fish in an aquarium can be mesmerizing and make waiting time go faster.

3. Watching a movie or video or playing games on a computer

Young children being happy about going to the dentist can be the subject of the movie or video. Most children like to play games on a computer, and age appropriate ones can be chosen. Watching cartoons while having dental work done is another useful idea.

4. Coloring pages or books

Providing an activity that is creative while giving a child something that takes his or her mind off the waiting time, coloring figures and dental objects can be educational and encouraging as well. The figures can be happy teeth, diagram of teeth, a smile, cleaning teeth properly and other related subjects.

5. Giving the child a “prize” to take home

Looking forward at the end of a visit to a new toothbrush, small tube of toothpaste, a balloon, a small toy, stickers to later put on something at home or a goody bag of some kind will most likely make a child much more cooperative about having a checkup, cleaning, and/or procedure done.

This San Antonio children’s dentist will make your child’s visit as happy as possible while taking the time and effort to bring a big smile while, at the same time, also educating him or her on proper dental care.