Wondering why the parents in your program may be resisting taking their child to the dentist? It can be a hassle. 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. 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 1. Not only is it recommended but also babies fuss less than small children and will get used to it faster.
- 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.
- Last, parents may be more frightened of the dentist than babies. Counsel your parents to relax. Children and babies can sense when parents are worried and scared. Remind them that good dental care is an important developmental milestone, as important as well-baby visits, check-ups and vaccinations.
