Pediatric dentists use a variety of behavior guidance techniques and one of the most common is Tell, Show, Do, Apply. You probably already use this method in some form with your child when teaching a new skill.
For infants, toddlers, and preschoolers, the first visit to the dentist can be intimidating and your child may feel vulnerable. Thankfully, you can help prepare them with these simple steps.
You can cultivate your child’s enthusiasm and comfort by talking about what will happen at their appointment. We will count and clean their teeth and may need to take pictures of their teeth with x-rays.
You can model counting your teeth, brushing your teeth, and read books that show positive examples of going to the dentist.
Role-playing enables your child to model the behavior you’ve told and shown them. You can take turns being the dentist and brush and count each other's teeth. We recommend lying in a reclined position since some children feel exposed when they lay back.
When you visit our office we will review and reinforce the skills you have practiced.
