Mention the dentist to most people and there is an obvious cringe. Of course, as young children, most don’t mind going to the dentist until a negative reaction is learned or picked up by the child as they age. But, by involving kids in the activities of their parents, there is a greater chance that they’ll adopt their habits, both good and bad. Fortunately, if the entire family becomes established at the same Family Dentistry in Southaven MS, kids can observe their parents and other adults in the family visiting the dentist happily without fear and apprehension. This goes a long way in them learning to have positive feelings about the dentist and is also the basis for establishing proper dental care that will last a lifetime.
Another advantage of establishing the children at a family dentistry in Southaven, MS is that they are able to begin their dental care with one dentist. As they get older, unlike at a pediatric practice, they are able to continue to receive their dental care from the same office. This provides comfort and familiarity to the child or young adult, keeping a fear of the dentist at bay. Because the office caters to patients of all ages, there is usually a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere there. This allows children to feel at home when they walk in the door. The dental provider may tell the child, “I’m glad when you Visit us,” teaching the child that the dentist is not to be feared. When dental visits are something the child looks forward to and not something to worry about, the dentist becomes a bridge to necessary dental care. The child learns the importance of good dental hygiene and check ups and learns to trust the dentist if dental work is needed.
Some parents feel that dental care isn’t necessary until the child’s permanent teeth come in, but that’s far from the truth. By that point, damage may be done requiring extensive treatment. This can put the child in an uneasy, unfamiliar, and often painful dental situation, setting up a lifetime of dental phobia. By establishing children early with a family dentist, the dentist is not looked upon with fear and trepidation but, instead, with the understanding that dental care doesn’t have to be scary or hurt, and is a necessary and important part of life.
