The end of the summer is always a hectic time – vacations, camps, and family obligations are often wrapping up while back to school shopping and preparations have begun.  Parents often feel overwhelmed at this time of year, but you can ease the stress of taking your children to get their dental check-ups by following a few simple tips.

  1. Practice and encourage great dental habits at home. Everyone wants to leave the dentist with a clean bill of oral health – no cavities or looming problems. The best way to achieve this is to make sure your children are continuously practicing excellent oral health habits. Encourage daily brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Keep an eye on your younger children – even if they are brushing on their own, they may need some guidance from a parent. And if you have teens, make sure they are brushing regularly and taking good care of their mouths,
  2. Time your appointments well. Children still napping? Don’t schedule an appointment when they would usually be napping. The same goes for meal times – if your children are used to eating a certain time, try not to bring them into the office when they are very hungry.  Even adults have a tough time being patient when they can’t stop thinking about their next meal.  Consider your children’s unique personalities, too. Young children are at their best usually first thing in the morning.  If your teens have multiple activities after school and come home exhausted – keep that in mind. 
  3. Schedule your appointments early in advance. Make it a habit to schedule your next appointment before leaving the dentist’s office. This makes it easier for you to get a convenient time for you and your family and makes the appointment a priority. You can always reschedule if you need to, but it beats scrambling last minute getting your children into the office.
  4. Keep calm and patient. Children aren’t the only ones who get nervous at the dentist! Parents often get anxious and stressed as well. Try and remain calm and don’t let your children see if you are nervous or anxious. Kids pick up on adult moods very easily, and if your child sees you stressed and nervous, they are going to mirror that behavior. Take a seat, relax, and let your pediatric dentist take the wheel.

If you practice these four tips, you will be on your way to a successful check-up – whether it’s back-to-school season or spring break.  If you have any questions or want to make an appointment, contact us today!