We have extensive experience working with children at Kew Road Dental in Richmond. We understand that dental checkups can be overwhelming and make some children anxious, especially if they are unsure what to expect. In this article, we will cover how to prepare your child for their dental checkup or procedure, what to expect and empower them with the knowledge to make the experience stress-free and enjoyable.
How to Prepare Your Child for Their First Appointment
Many proven techniques can help prepare your child for their first dental appointment. At Kew Road Dental, many parents have informed us that giving their children plenty of notice before the appointment is beneficial. In addition, talk about the positives of visiting a dentist and how it benefits oral health and overall well-being.
Explain to them what to expect, talk through the appointment and what they will likely see, hear and experience (this is covered in the following subheading). Focus on the positives, such as how their teeth will be healthy, white and shiny after the visit. You can also get them to practice by opening their mouth wide whilst lying on their back. There are also plenty of videos and literature online that are specifically aimed at children's dental visits.
On the day of the appointment, try to make sure the day is stress-free and that they are in clothes they find comfortable. Sometimes, it helps to allow them to bring a favourite toy or a distraction such as headphones. This can be especially beneficial whilst they are in a waiting room.
What To Expect During The Checkup?
As previously mentioned, it is a good idea to chat with your child about what to expect during the dental checkup. It will help reassure them and prepare them for their visit.
- Arrive at Kew Road Dental and receive a friendly welcome and introduction. The dental practice is designed to be relaxing, with numerous distractions to help keep your child comfortable and reassured.
- A friendly introduction to the Dentist and their team, talking calmly and gently to help build trust and confidence.
- The dental team will provide some protective equipment, such as safety glasses. This will be done in a jovial and fun manner.
- The team will maintain a relaxed atmosphere during the checkup with continued reassurance and encouragement.
- Upon conclusion, the dental team will praise and highlight the positives of the checkup and how well they have done.
Common Dental Issues For Children
Unfortunately, dental issues in children are much more prevalent than many think. The National Dental Epidemiology Programme (NDEP) survey from 2024 found that 23.7% of five-year-olds in the UK have 'visually obvious dental decay', on average, with 3.5 teeth affected per child. For children 6 years old, 27.1% had visual decay signs. A search on Google will reveal how worrying the trends of tooth decay in the UK are amongst our young. On a positive note, many of these issues are manageable if detected early, and a professional dental practice provides ongoing care.
Five Common Issues:
Below are some warning signs to see a dentist.
- Tooth Decay.
- Gum Disease.
- Crooked/Crowded Teeth.
- Enamel Erosion.
- Sensitivity Issues.
Signs Of Potential Issues
There are many warning signs that could indicate potential issues with your child's teeth. These signs are not always pronounced and can manifest over time. If you have any concerns or are unsure, it is best to contact your dental professional for advice or a checkup.
What To Look Out For
- Discolouration.
- Pain/Sensitivity.
- Bad breath.
- Odd Angle Teeth.
- Swollen/Red Gums.
Handling Your Child's Anxiety
Several techniques can help ease dental anxiety in children. The primary goal is to provide reassurance, framing the entire experience positively. Some steps that can be taken include:
- Talk and familiarise them with dental terms and tools by acting as a dentist.
- Many fun books are available specifically aimed at children who are going to the Dentist.
- Peppa Pig: Peppa and the Tooth Fairy
- Maisy Goes to the Dentist
- Harry and the Dinosaurs Go to the Dentist, etc.
- Book the appointment time that best suits your child.
- Try using distractions, such as a toy or a book.
- Avoid words that could increase anxiety, and use 'child-friendly' terminology.
- Reassure, understand and talk through any concerns that they might have.
How Often Should Children Have Checkups?
Generally, a child should have a dental checkup every six months. However, this can depend upon the individual and their unique needs. If there are known issues or your child is at higher risk, visits may be needed more frequently. It is best to talk with your Dentist and discuss your specific needs. The most important thing is to find any issues early so that they can be treated and monitored.
Summary
Regular dental visits are crucial for children's oral health. A professional, reassuring environment helps ease their fears, encourages good habits, and prevents minor issues from worsening. Contact Kew Road Dental to discuss your child's dental needs.