I need to schedule my son’s first dental appointment. He will be 5 yrs old in October. I know I should have taken him sooner. I think my fear of the dentist has made me delay his first appointment. How do I prepare him for the appointment? – Melissa

Melissa – If you have already chosen the dentist for your son’s appointment, you can take your son to see the office and meet the staff. If your dentist is a family dentist who also treats children, take your son with you to your dental appointment so he can see your successful appointment. Don’t mention your fear of the dentist to your son. If you don’t have an appointment scheduled before your son will need his visit, stop by your dentist’s office to introduce your son to the staff.

Explain to your son that he is going to get his teeth checked and cleaned just as adults do. He will have healthy teeth and a nice smile.

If you are still deciding upon a dentist for your son and your own dentist treats children, both you and your son may be more comfortable there. If you haven’t made a decision on where your child where be treated, visit a few dental offices with your son to ensure you are both comfortable with the office environment and the staff.

This post is sponsored by Plano dentist Dr. Miranda Lacy.