Introducing your child in a friendly manner
In our day to day practice, we are careful to use words that create a positive and relaxing mindset when it comes to interacting with children. You can help your child have a good first visit by introducing them to dentists and dental care via discussion in a very positive and general manner; for instance, explaining that the dentist helps keep their teeth happy and healthy, and that we will be very gentle when we look into their mouth to count and tickle their teeth. Using words like needle, shot, drill, pull or any other words suggesting unpleasantness should be avoided. Here are some suggestions…
| Use | Do Not Use |
| Teeth Counting | Examination |
| Tooth Picture | X-Rays |
| Tickling Teeth | Cleaning |
| Mr. Thirsty | Suction |
| Tooth Vitamins | Fluoride |
| Tooth Print with Play-doh | Impression |
| Cavity Creeps or Sugar Bugs | Decay or Cavity |
| Magic Air or Ice Cream Air | Nitrous Oxide |
| Cold Tooth Jelly | Topical Anesthetic or Numbing Gel |
| Raincoat | Rubber Dam |
| Tooth Hugger | Clamp |
| Water Whistle | Drill |
| White Play-doh | Fillings |
| Transformer Tooth or Tooth Jewelry | Silver Crowns |
| Wiggle a Tooth | Pull Out Tooth |
| Sleepy Juice | Needle or Shot |