Kid Friendly
At Tallgrass Dental we go out of our way to consider how children and families interact with the dental offices. LCD HD televisions are mounted on the ceiling above the patient so patients can relax to family friendly movies. The office is filled with warm colors and we have a child area right across from the rooms with dental chairs. This means that kids can watch their favorite movie while they wait for their mom or dad to get a filling. Younger children often walk into the operatory to see what is happening with mom. They are welcome to watch as parents model good behavior in the dental office for them. Then they usually get bored and return to their video program.
Naperville and Plainfield are great family communities. We are excited to see families with children of all ages. The American Dental Association recommends kids see the dentist starting at 2.5 years of age. The American Pediatric Association says at oldest when a child turns 3. Often for these very young children we see how they respond to the office environment and play things by ear. If they are scared then we might spend the appointment counting teeth and showing them dental equipment. Some kids have to sit on Mom's lap to get the exam while other kids get exams, cleanings, polishings, and fluoride treatments at their first visit.
We do ask parents to allow kids preschool age and older to be alone in the dental operatory. Children are very perceptive to the response of their parents. Statistically, parents who act overly concerned with the child's dental experience create the scared response from children. The children see your concern for them as a reason to be afraid. "Mom wouldn't be this protective if there was nothing to fear!" On the other hand, a relaxed parent conveys a feeling of trust and security to their child. Remember, kids don't have any preconceived notions about the dentist except those parents and siblings create; and we are doing nothing that might cause pain at the first visit. For kids younger than preschool age we invite parents into the operatory.
Common answers to question asked about pediatric dentistry:
- Kids should see the dentist at about 2.5 years of age.
- Kids should have x-rays taken once a year starting at 5.
- All adult molars should be sealed as soon as possible.
- Sealants often need replacement.
- Fluoride treatments should be given every 6 months.
- Kids should floss as soon as they have 2 year molars.
- Kids should brush twice a day under adult supervision to ensure good technique.
- Small bite surface cavities can be fixed without anesthetia.
