What should parents keep in mind when taking their children to the dentist?

No negativity: Be very positive about the visit and the treatment, if any. Don't tell your children stories about pain and needles. You have to be the role model for them, and filling their minds with positive thoughts only makes it easier to treat them. Dentistry today is virtually painless.. Don't make them dental phobics from the start.

Attitude: Formthe most part today's dentistry for children is easy and comfortable. Be positive and upbeat with your child. Avoid any negative references. Your child should see dentist (consider a pediatric dental specialist) at age 1 or as soon as the first teeth appear. Put on a smile and go now.

Childrens specialist: The american academy of pediatrics (aap), the american dental association (ada), and the american academy of pediatric dentistry (aapd) recommend establishing a 'dental home' for your child by one year of age. Children who have a dental home are more likely to receive appropriate preventive and routine oral health care. The dental home is intended to provide a place other than the emergency room.

It's never too early: Its never to early to establish the "dental home" for your child. An early visit can establish preventive goals and can also help create positive dental experiences for the child. I frequently have parents state when they inquire about a first dental visit the that their child is "not ready yet. Allow your pediatric dentist to help give your child the foundation for future dental care.