Children's Dental Treatment

Dear Parents:

If your child needs a dental restoration (filling), the following information may help make your child's experience a good one:

1. Please do not tell your child about a "shot" or joke with them about the dentist "pulling all their teeth"! This makes our job more difficult by scaring the child before the appointment. We prefer to tell them that we may put a little "sleepy water" by their tooth, which will put their tooth to sleep but will not make them sleepy.
2. If your child is scheduled close to a meal time, it is a good idea to feed them before the appointment. The numb feeling can last up to a few hours after the end of the appointment, and the child should not chew anything until that feeling is gone. This will help prevent accidental chewing on their lip, tongue or cheek.
3. Accompanying your child to the treatment room is allowed, but not recommended. Children cooperate better when Mom or Dad wait in the reception area. We demonstrate and explain everything to your child in pleasant way because we do not want to surprise or frighten them with anything unfamiliar.
4. Your child may bring their favorite CD or cassette tape to listen to during the treatment. At the end of the appointment, if the child has done well, we encourage them to visit our toy chest on the way out.

With your help, we can create a good experience for your child. Remember to always keep a positive tone when discussing dental treatment with your child.