As a parent, you're likely well aware of how important it is to begin taking your child to the dentist at an early age. Even though they still have their baby teeth, having their teeth cleaned and inspected is important to maintaining their oral health. However, your current dentist may be making your child's appointment more stressful than it should be. Here are some tips that will make this semi-annual appointment easier for everyone involved.

Visit A Children's Dentist

While it may be tempting to continue going to your regular dentist for your kid's appointment, this is not always what is best for your child. Your dentist may have experience working with kids, but do they enjoy working with kids? It may be worth visiting a dentist that specifically works with children, such as William E Kemper DMD.

A children's dentist will be more inviting to a child, right from when they enter the waiting room. It will be kid friendly, have activities for them to do, and take their mind off of the fact that they are waiting to visit the dentist. Once invited in for their appointment, the child is treated quite differently than an adult. Expect to work with a dental hygienist that is excited to work with a small child, has a positive attitude, and even knows some tricks to get your child motivated.

The dental chair itself will be more fun when working with a children's dentist. Expect to see fun things on the ceiling for your child to look at, or even a TV so they can relax and watch a cartoon during their cleaning and inspection.

Bring A Stuffed Animal

One thing that can help your child get through an appointment is to bring along a stuffed animal. Your dentist shouldn't have problems with this since they can hold it in the chair and it will keep your child's hands out of the way. The idea of being able to pick a stuffed animal to keep your child company will help calm them down since it will feel special taking the toy outside the house for a special occasion.

Sit In During The Appointment

While it may be tempting to sit in the waiting room during your child's appointment, this is a time where you will actually want to go with them while they are having the cleaning and inspection done. Being with a parent can make the experience less stressful for your child, and you can talk to them and help calm them down if they get nervous.