At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we believe that early dental visits are a cornerstone of lifelong oral health. Starting dental care early helps in establishing a strong foundation for your child’s healthy smile.

How to Prepare for the First Visit

1. Start Early: Begin talking to your child about dental visits at an early age. The earlier you introduce the concept, the more comfortable they will be. Explain that the dentist is a friendly doctor who helps keep their teeth healthy and strong.

2. Use Positive Language: When discussing the dentist, use positive and simple language. Avoid words like “pain,” “hurt,” or “shot.” Instead, focus on the benefits, such as having a clean mouth, strong teeth, and a bright smile. Phrases like “the dentist will count your teeth” or “the dentist will make your teeth sparkle” can help create a positive image.

3. Read Books and Watch Videos: Children’s books and videos about visiting the dentist can be incredibly helpful. They provide a visual and engaging way to familiarise your child with what to expect. Choose materials that depict dental visits in a fun and reassuring manner.

4. Role-Play at Home: Turn the experience into a game by playing “dentist” at home. Use a toothbrush to count your child’s teeth and let them take turns being the dentist. This role-playing can reduce anxiety by making the real visit feel more familiar.

5. Visit the Dental Office: If possible, take your child to visit the dental office before their appointment. This allows them to see the environment, meet the staff, and become comfortable with the setting. At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we welcome families to drop by and say hello.

6. Bring a Comfort Item: Allow your child to bring a favorite toy, blanket, or stuffed animal to the appointment. Having a familiar object can provide comfort and reduce anxiety.

7. Be a Role Model: Children often mimic their parents’ behavior. If they see you maintaining a positive attitude about dental visits, they are likely to feel more confident. Share your own experiences and emphasize the importance of oral health.

8. Stay Calm and Positive: Your child can pick up on your emotions, so it’s crucial to stay calm and positive. Even if you have dental anxiety, try to keep it hidden. Reassure your child that the dentist is there to help them and that you’ll be with them throughout the visit.

9. Answer Questions: Openly discuss the dental visit with your child, addressing their curiosity and concerns in straightforward, kid-friendly terms. Encourage them to share their feelings and reassure them about the visit's purpose. For complex questions, suggest noting them down to ask the dentist together, turning it into a shared learning experience.

10. Acknowledge Fears: It's important to recognize and validate your child's fears about their first dental visit. Discuss their concerns openly, whether about new experiences, sounds, or tools, and reassure them that feeling scared is okay. Sharing a personal story of overcoming fear can illustrate that their anxieties can be managed with your support.

Bonus Tip!

11. Communicate with the Dentist: Let us know if your child has any particular fears or concerns. At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we take the time to understand each child’s needs and tailor our approach accordingly. Our team is experienced in making dental visits enjoyable for children. Don't be afraid to reach out!

What to Expect During the Visit

During the first visit, the dentist will perform a gentle examination to check your child’s teeth, gums, and overall oral health. This visit is usually short and focuses on making your child comfortable with the dental environment. The dentist may also clean your child’s teeth and apply fluoride to help protect against cavities.

Introduction and Comfort: I personally greet every young patient and their parents with a warm smile. I take a few minutes to chat with the child, making them feel at ease. I explain that we will be checking their teeth to make sure they are healthy and strong, using simple and reassuring language. I might even share a fun fact about teeth to spark their interest.

Familiarisation with Equipment: To reduce any fear of the unknown, I introduce the child to the dental tools in a playful manner. I show them the small mirror we use to look at their teeth, calling it a "tooth explorer." I let them hear the sound of the dental drill (which I refer to as a "tooth tickler") without actually using it on their teeth. This helps demystify the tools and makes the child feel more comfortable.

Gentle Examination: The first examination is very gentle and non-invasive. I count the child’s teeth out loud, making it a fun activity. I use kid-friendly terms like "sugar bugs" for cavities and "tooth fairy dust" for fluoride. I explain each step before I do it, so there are no surprises. If the child seems anxious, I take breaks and offer positive reinforcement for their bravery.

Interactive Learning: I make the visit interactive by involving your child in the process. For example, I might let them hold a small mirror to see their own teeth, or show them how to brush using a model. I ask them questions about their brushing habits and praise them for their efforts. This not only educates them but also makes them feel proud of their oral care routine.

Parental Involvement: Throughout the appointment, I keep parents informed and involved. I discuss any findings in detail and provide practical advice on how to maintain your child’s oral health at home. I demonstrate proper brushing and flossing techniques, and suggest child-friendly dental products. I also address any concerns the parents might have, ensuring they leave with a clear understanding of their child’s dental needs.

Positive Reinforcement: At the end of the visit, I praise the child for being brave and cooperative, reinforcing a positive association with dental visits. This helps build a foundation for future visits to be seen as positive and rewarding experiences.

Post-Visit Guidance

After the appointment, we provide a small dental kit for your child, which includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss. I also offer personalised tips and answer any questions you might have about your child’s oral care routine.

Affordable and Accessible Care:

At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we offer affordable dental care options to ensure that every child has access to quality dental services. Our special introductory packages and flexible payment plans make it easier for families to prioritize their child’s oral health.

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule (CDBS) also provides financial support for eligible families, covering basic dental services for children aged 0-17 years. This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ensure that all children receive the dental care they need. We can answer your questions about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.