Dentist

[jwright]

My ds Jason is 8 yrs. old. This past week was the first time he let the dental hygienist clean his teeth with their equipment. Before this time, he would only let them use a toothbrush and his toothpaste. They still used his toothpasted but at least this time they used all their tools. Well, he has 4 cavities and has to go back and see the dentist this week. I'm not sure of what to tell him to expect or how to prepare him for this visit. I'm quite sure they aren't filling all 4 cavities (some aren't bad yet) but I didn't really get to find out how many they are doing because younger ds was trying to drag me out the door. I will probably end up calling them sometime this week to find out how many they are doing and how they do this for kids. Anyone have any ideas on how to make this go smoothly???

Janell

[~Tara~]

Do they offer 'gas' at your office?
That would probably be a good idea, as opposed to the whole needle/shot thing as that is likely to cause more anxiety.

But as for simply preparing him...I don't know, would definitely need to hear more from the office. What they plan on doing, how they handle things, what they can do to make this easier on him and give you tips for preparing him at home.

Also, do you have a Walkman or the likes? Those are FANTASTIC little devices for such a time. Even as an adult I've had dentists recommend it. Just load up with your fave tunes, plug in, sit back and chill.

Still trying to think about preparation at home...just be as honest and gentle as you can I think would be best practice. Let him know they need to fix some of those bad spots but that you're going to call and see what all is going to happen and then you'll let him know more so he can be ready. The fact that he has now let them use their equipment should be very beneficial. So he's familiar with some of the tools. Whether *those* will be used or not..ya know, don't need to go there

Sorry I'm not of more help and sorry you're having to go through this.

I have a couple who need a dental visit as well...for a cleaning. Only one of mine has been cleaned I think.

[SpiritFilledMomof2]

My 3 year old dd has to have dental surgery at the end of the month. They are doing it in the hospital because she is so young and they have to put her out.

Is there a pediatric dentist you can go to? I had to take my girls to one and it is a much better experience. They are totally equipped to treat children. They have tv's on the ceiling with cartoons playing while they clean their teeth and lots of toys to play with.

[jwright]

It's not a pediatric dentist but they do have screens to watch cartoons or a dvd. My son just does not like certain noises, textures, (has sensory issues). They have been very nice with working with him and the dentist is married to an acquaintance of mine (they have a son a little older than mine) so he is good with kids but I'm still concerned with how he will do with this new situation. I am going to have to call them to find out how many and how they do it so I can tell him (prepare him). He tends to do better knowing ahead of time what to expect.

Janell