Pre-Treatment Pediatric Dental Instructions

The hardest thing about getting treatment at the dentist, especially for young children, is managing fear and anxiety. Usually, this has to do with fear of the unknown.

At Tiny Tooth Pediatric Dentistry, we practice proven methods that make for a positive treatment experience.

Our approach combines:

Parent involvement: Although some children do better without parents present during treatment, we are open to having you stay with your child. If you choose to be present, we ask that you follow these guidelines:

1. Only one per may accompany the child to the treatment room. Too many people/distractions make it difficult for your child to focus or hear our guidance.
2. Be supportive of our kid-friendly vocabulary
3. Please be a silent observer.This will allow us to maintain communication with your child. Children will normally listen to parents instead of us.

Kid-friendly vocabulary: In order to improve the chances of your child having a positive experience, we are selective with our use of words. Please support us by NOT USING negative words.

1. We commonly say NO 4 LETTER WORDS ARE ALLOWED. “Examples of these are shot, hurt, pain, etc.
2. These words dramatically decrease our chance of a successful appointment.

Show and tell demonstrations

Use of Nitrous Oxide/laughing gas:

In our office, we use nitrous oxide in most treatment appointments. Nitrous oxide is given through a small breathing mask which is placed over your child’s nose, allowing them to relax, but without putting them to sleep. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recognizes this technique as a very safe, effective technique to use for treating children’s dental needs. Your child will remain conscious and keep all natural reflexes.

Prior to your appointment:

1. Please inform us of any change to your child’s health
2. Tell us about any respiratory condition that makes breathing through the nose difficult for your child. It may limit the effectiveness of the nitrous oxide.
3. Let us know if your child is taking any medications on the day of the appointment.