Going to the dentist can make anyone nervous but young children are especially prone to anxiety. Using some of these 7 tips will make it a great experience.

Part of the joy of having kids is those fun 'first-moments.' First family vacation, first ice cream cone, first haircut, and of course - first dentist visit.

Some are admittedly more fun than others. For many of us, dental visits rank low on the fun list.

In fact, 60% of adults experience fear around visiting the dentist. Probably stemming from a bad childhood experience.

If you're gearing up for your child's first dentist visit, then you're in the right place. Read on, and we'll share our top seven tips on making the experience great.

Tip #1 Watch Your Words

Be mindful of how you speak about the dentist around your kids. How you speak about the dentist to your kids and around them will influence their experience.

If you have your own fears around dental work, try to keep them at bay. Or relate with your child by sharing your own fears and how you overcame them, even if that last part is a stretch.

As much as possible, speak in an upbeat, positive manner about visiting the dentist. You may find this helps to reprogram your own beliefs about dentist visits!

Tip #2 Find a Great Pediatric Dentist

Providing services for kids is an art form. In that regard, a good pediatric dentist is a true artist.

Dentists who specialize in pediatrics receive special training. This helps them explain treatments and processes in ways kids can understand. Good pediatric dentists go above and beyond to ensure your child feels comfortable every step of the way.

If you can, try to find a family dentist that offers care for every stage of life. This will help build bonds of trust and keep your dental care under one roof for the duration.

At Finger Lakes Family Dental, we love providing the best care to your entire family. We are proud to offer pediatric dentistry as part of our general dentistry services.

Tip #3 Introduce Dentist-Friendly Media

Being mindful of how you speak about the dentist is a great tip we already went over. There is a ton of excellent media out there to reinforce your efforts.

Books, shows, and videos explaining the dentist are all great resources. From Peppa Pig to Sesame Street, find your child's favorite and go from there. A favored cartoon character can make a visit to the dentist more approachable, even fun!

You can check out this website for a ton of ideas on ways to get your kids excited about dental hygiene.

Tip #4 Play Pretend Dentist at Home

After you've read all the books, watched all the cartoons, role-playing could come next.

Make an at-home dentist's office. Take turns reclining in a chair, counting each other's teeth with a toothbrush. You can really get into the role; drape a napkin over them, count and brush the teeth, talk to them as the dentist would.

And don't skimp on the positive reinforcement! Let them know how good of a patient they are, and of course, let them 'examine' you too.

Let your child know the dentist will do something similar, so they know what to expect.

Tip #5 Teach Them About Dental Hygiene

Dental hygiene does more than keep mouths healthy. According to the CDC, kids who have poor oral health miss more school and receive lower grades than children who don’t.

Take opportunities to educate your children about dental hygiene whenever you can.

Your family's bedtime routine could be a great time to learn about dental hygiene together. Making it an activity that's fun and connected.

You could set a timer for brushing, make games about flossing, sing songs about healthy teeth. There is no creative limit.

Tip #6 Recruit Comfort Reinforcements

If possible, schedule all your family dental appointments for the same day. That way, the whole gang can be there for your child's first dentist appointment.

If that's not possible, consider letting them bring a comfort item. A small blanket, a stuffed animal, any item that is special to them would work.

Sometimes having a friend, stuffed or otherwise, along with can help us be brave in the face of challenging new situations.

Additionally, you could plan a special treat after the appointment. A special activity or item after a trip to the dentist's office could help set your child up for easy dental care as an adult.

Tip #7 Plan Ahead

Make sure you are aware of any special check-in procedures you may face during the first visit. Many places have new Covid protocols you should make yourself aware of.

If possible, go to the office before your actual appointment. This way, your child can see the facility and meet the dentists beforehand.

Many pediatric dentists are used to this practice and will welcome your child. It offers the dentist a stress-free introduction to your child, and all parties will be more comfortable when appointment time comes.

Set Your Child Up For Good Dental Hygiene

When it comes to forming good habits, starting in childhood is the way to go. In fact, the earlier you can start bringing your child to the dentist, the better.

The general rule of thumb is to bring them either by their first birthday or when the first tooth breaks through. Whichever happens first.

When possible, you can have them tag along to your visits until they are old enough. This can help normalize the process and make the dentist's office a familiar place.

Make sure to keep up with your own dental hygiene too. Kids are always watching what the grown-ups do. So make sure you, too, are brushing and flossing daily.