Think back to your first visit to the dentist. Were you nervous, uncomfortable, even downright terrified? At Diggs Dental Care, Drs. Kate and Tanner Diggs hope to remove those feelings of fear and trepidation and make visiting the dentist a positive experience, especially for their young patients. With an extensive background in dentistry, and with two kids of their own and another on the way, Kate and Tanner know first-hand the tips and tools to help all kids feel comfortable at the dentist office.
At what age would you recommend parents begin thinking about bringing their child to the dentist?
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that a child has his or her first visit by their first birthday, or within 6 months of getting their first tooth.
What should a child, and a parent, expect to happen on an initial visit?
We feel that the first visit, especially if done at an early age, is really helpful for establishing a positive relationship with the dentist and the dental office environment. We show our young patients the basic dental equipment, check to make sure the teeth and gums are developing appropriately, and discuss dietary and oral hygiene habits with parents and guardians.
What tips can you offer a parent to help them prepare their child for that first visit?
Preparing for the first visit can help everyone be more comfortable. We recommend using positive, simple language your child can understand, reading books about the dentist, using role-play or pretend play about going to the dentist, and keeping the conversation focused on being healthy. Scheduling visits earlier in the day is also helpful for young kids, as well as avoiding nap times and meal times to ensure they are well-rested and alert.
What are some of the steps you take at Diggs Dental Care to make children feel comfortable?
We try to make kids’ visits as fun as possible! We let children touch and hold our basic instruments, such as mirrors and suction. They can ride up and down in the chair, and we always encourage positive, playful interaction with our team. Our youngest patients can even stay in their parent or guardian’s lap during the evaluation. Some kids will just be more anxious, and that’s okay! We’re experienced with handling this and work with each child to make them feel as comfortable as possible.
We all lose our baby teeth eventually so I can imagine someone thinking, “What does it matter if I take my child to the dentist at an early age?” What are some benefits of starting a dental health routine as a child versus later in life?
Establishing healthy habits is easier at an early age. Breaking bad habits can be a challenge! Early visits help us establish long-term risk factors and assess the mouth for any developmental or other tissue-related abnormalities. Baby teeth allow for proper chewing and speech development in children, and hold space for permanent teeth. Bacteria that cause cavities in baby teeth can also spread to developing permanent teeth.
Do either of you remember anything about going to the dentist as kids, and how that influenced your decision to become dentists?
Dr. Tanner: I grew up in a very dental-focused house. My mom was a dental hygienist and my dad was an orthodontist. I was always very comfortable in that environment and loved it so much that I never really saw myself doing anything else.
Dr. Kate: I loved going to visit my childhood dentist growing up! He was so kind and positive and really motivated me to establish good oral home care from the beginning. I remember the waiting room always having fun magazines and books for kids, and I wanted so badly to remain in the “no cavity club.” In grade school, I interned at his office and observed how he made patients of all ages comfortable. I found that to be very motivating as I considered my future in dentistry.
"We let children touch and hold our basic instruments, such as mirrors and suction. They can ride up and down in the chair, and we always encourage positive, playful interaction with our team."