Wondering why the parents in your program may be resisting taking their child to the dentist? The reasons for not scheduling this check-up are what you would think. First, it can be a hassle for busy families. Plus, there can be a lot of fear–most of it the parent’s! Dental care is the most prevalent unmet health need of children in the United States. Tooth decay can hurt. It can prevent a child from being able to eat, sleep, play, talk, learn, smile, feel confident, and hit important developmental milestones. You can help! Here are good tips you can share with the parents in your program to make baby’s first visit to the dentist easier.
- Sooner is better. Advise parents to take their child to the dentist as a baby, starting by age one. Not only is it recommended but also babies fuss less than small children and will get used to it faster. Bonus!
- Suggest to parents they start good dental health practices at home early, so baby is used to having someone looking in the mouth. Some experts recommend wiping newborns’ gums gently with a clean cloth. Then move to a child’s toothbrush with a tiny smear of fluoride toothpaste once the first tooth comes in.
- Be ready for fussing. It’s natural. A dental office that sees young children will know how to manage that.
- Remind parents that the dental check-up is just like a well-child appointment to the pediatrician, except it’s all about the mouth and little teeth. Good dental care is a crucial developmental milestone, as important as well-baby visits, check-ups and vaccinations.
- Last, parents may be more frightened of the dentist than babies. Counsel your parents to relax. Children and infants can sense when parents are worried and scared. It will be OK; parents and the dentist are a good team, because good oral health is a part of good overall health.
