Keep it positive and simple. Tell your child the dentist will count and check their teeth. Avoid words like “hurt” or “shot,” and try not to share your own worries about the dentist.
Reading a picture book about the dentist or playing “dentist” at home can help.
We introduce your child to the room and tools, do an age-appropriate exam, and may clean the teeth. Then kids pick a toy.
For babies, see baby’s first dental visit. For nervous kids, read dental anxiety and comfort.
Related reading for parents: How to Help a Child Who Is Scared of the Dentist · How Often Should Kids Go to the Dentist?