I figured since our pediatrician has asked us at Theo’s last two check-ups if we have taken him to the dentist (and tried to push a local pediatric dentist’s card on us when we said “no”), I ought to try to squeeze this in before his three year check up in a couple weeks. Disregard the fact that I’m freaking out because my BABY boy is almost THREE…
Anyway, what’s “the” age to take a child to the dentist? I’ve heard everything from when they get their first flippin’ tooth to when they start school. We’re about halfway between and I guess these early visits can be considered trial runs for when he has more intense appointments in the future.
He went today. I chose to take him to the dentist that Ryan and I go to for convenience, with an open mind that they may not do a great job with toddlers. Can I still call him a toddler? He seems too old for that. I digress.
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Theo. He did well, but he was not a fan of the gritty toothpaste or the bright light. I was shocked at how well the staff did with Theo. Above and beyond for sure. If they had not been so great, maybe Theo would have not done as well as he did. He just seemed like such a big boy sitting in that cool chair. The hygienist let him go up and down as many times as he wanted. She showed him the x-ray machines and let him pick out his favorite Lightning McQueen toothbrush and let him push buttons on every single thing. So kind and patient.