Dentist Appointment Disaster

He recovered from the trauma pretty quickly.

We took Sprout to the dentist today, intending to do the basic checkup & brushing. It didn't go well. He started to get worried as soon as we went in the door to the back from the waiting room. Possibly remembering the last time he went in to see the dentist a year ago, when he'd fallen on his mouth & we were worried it would affect his front teeth. Luckily, there was no permanent damage to his teeth, but I'm afraid visiting the dentist for the first time when his mouth was in pain set him up to be wary of dentists.

He started to cry when we asked him to sit on the big chair by himself & wouldn't lie back even on me. The dentist tried to see in his mouth but wasn't really able to get a good look at all because Sprout got so upset. We went in to watch Papa's checkup & cleaning next. Sprout sat on my lap & watched raptly as the dentist & hygienist checked, X-rayed & cleaned Papa's teeth. He was quite relaxed after seeing it all. I am kicking myself for not scheduling Oliver to go first, then Sprout.

I know some kids might get more anxious seeing all the scaling, polishing, the bright lights, paper masks & strange sounding machines before their appointment. But for Sprout, I think it's better if he can spend some time getting used to where he is & seeing what's going to happen, he'd be better off. When we try again in six months, I'll be sure to do it in reverse.

Have you ever had a terrible experience bringing your toddler to the dentist? Got any tips that might help next time?


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