Pediatric Dentistry

Is it time to bring your child to their first dental check-up? If they’re nearing their first birthday, it’s definitely a good idea! Our friendly staff at Olympia Fields Dental Associates will provide the compassionate care your child needs to have a stress-free, happy visit. We hope to give your child the right tools to enjoy a lifetime of good oral health.

Your Child’s Appointment

We know you or your child may be slightly nervous for this first appointment, but we’re here to help you through it. Here are a few things that you can expect to take place:

• Sitting in the Chair – When you and your child enter the exam room, we’ll ask you to take a seat in the dental chair. If your child is too small or possibly too nervous to sit in the chair alone, we welcome you to sit in the chair with them.
• A Quick Exam – Next, we’ll do a quick examination of your child’s teeth, jaw, and gums to ensure that everything is developing properly. We’ll be able to identify if any problems are occurring, such as tooth decay, so that we can determine the proper care regimen moving forward.
• Cleaning – Once the exam is over, we’ll perform a professional cleaning on your child’s teeth. This will allow us to remove any plaque buildup from the enamel, which will prevent decay and allow their gums to remain in good health.
• Education – The best way to stay in good oral health is through a good home care routine. We’ll teach your child how to brush and floss their teeth so they can stay in good oral health.

How to Prepare for Your Visit

Your dentist is fully prepared to help your kids feel calm and safe during their dental exam. However, there are a number of things you can do at home to ensure their visit goes smoothly as well. Consider trying some of these tips and tricks to prepare your child for their first trip to the dentist:

• Communication is key! Talking to your child about the dentist is a great way to prepare them for their visit. Explain how the dentist will help them to have strong, healthy teeth, but try to avoid scary words like “shots” or “drill.”
• Have a pretend appointment. If your child loves to play pretend, allow them to act as a patient while you touch each of their teeth. This will get them used to what it may feel like during their dental exam. You might even consider letting them take on the role as dentist, and let them perform an exam on their stuffed animals!
• Read a book about the dentist. There are plenty of fun picture books about going to the dentist, even from such popular names as Dora the Explorer and The Berenstain Bears. This will help your child to see the dentist as fun and exciting.
• Eat before you arrive. It’s hard for your child to have a snack while they’re in the chair. Be sure to eat (and brush!) right before the appointment.
• Pick an appointment time carefully. Choose a time to come in when your child is usually in their best mood. For example, it’s best to schedule a time that doesn’t overlap with their naptime.
• Stay positive! Your child will read your mood when you’re in the room. So if you’re having fun, they will too!

We want you and your child to feel at home when visiting Olympia Fields Dental Associates. If you have any questions about your child’s first appointment, or would like to schedule a visit, give us a call today!