Crookes and Jenkins Dental is a family-oriented practice, we love caring for children and offering helpful advice to parents too.
Your child’s oral health is intrinsically related to their overall health. It is important to impart proper oral hygiene habits and encourage positive attitudes toward the dentist so they can maintain a healthy smile for life. The baby teeth are vital to the future development of your child’s mouth, which is why it is important to start good oral care early.
Preparing for the appointment
The Australian Dental Association recommends children should first see the dentist when they reach 1 year old or shortly after the eruption of the first baby teeth. You should encourage a positive attitude toward dental care habits and be visiting the dentist. The ADA suggests:
- Take the time to play “dentist” with your child at home.
- Read your child a story about going to the dentist.
- Make the appointment at a time when your child is well rested.
- Inform the dentist about any medical or psychological issues your child may have.
- Openly discuss your questions and concerns.
Don’t convey anxiety about the dental visit to your child, even if you are a nervous patient! Try not to use negative words like hurt, shot or needle around them. Also, you shouldn’t worry if your child cries or creates a fuss during the visit. Very young children may react like this to any new situation. Our staff know that children may be apprehensive about a visit to the dentist and go to every effort to make the appointment as enjoyable and non-threatening as possible. You could even bring along a favourite toy or other familiar objects to help your child know that the dental office is a comfortable and safe place.
Check out the Kids Club section of our website for fun and educational resources to prepare your child for their first visit.
What we look for…
The purpose of the first visit is to learn about your child’s oral health and how to care for their unique needs before problems occur. During the appointment, we will evaluate their oral and dental health, and diagnose any issues. We will also discuss overall oral health issues such as growth and development, teething, bite (how your child’s teeth come together), caring for soft tissues such as gums and cheeks, oral habits such as thumb sucking, and other factors that affect the risk of cavities, such as diet and hygiene practices.
Crookes and Jenkins Dental Kids Club
It is important to find a dentist you trust and an office where you feel comfortable. Our aim is to keep visits fun and health focused. If treatment is needed then this care is provided in a safe and comforting environment.
To help you and your child become dental health wise and prepare for their first visit we have created a Kids Club, which you can check out here. Containing a number of fun and educational resources designed to educate your child on good dental health practices, it also outlines what will happen during their appointment.
At Crookes and Jenkins Dental we love caring for children and families and do our best to keep dental experiences comfortable and positive. For more information on children’s dentistry, or to book an appointment, please contact us.
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