Autumn and the "Teeth Doctor"

There are few things that I dread more in life than going to the dentist. Just the thought of making an appointment gives me the chills. This probably stems from the years that I spent in and out of dentist and orthodontist offices (two set of braces combined with various other issues will do that to you).

I am not a proponent of pushing my fears and anxieties onto my children, except when it comes to walking on grates in the ground, that's just dangerous. So, with Autumn's first dentist appointment approaching I wanted to make sure that she had a comfortable introduction to the dentist's office.

Steve and I talked to her a few days before the appointment and explained that just like she goes to the doctor to make sure that her body is healthy, she also has to go to the doctor to make sure that her teeth are healthy. We gave her a general idea of what to expect at the visit and by the end of the conversation she was actually excited to go (who's kid is this?)

The morning of her appointment Autumn took extra care to brush her teeth really well, saying that she wanted to get them extra white for the "Teeth Doctor".

Once we arrived at the dentist's office Autumn took off to play with the toys in the waiting room. When she heard the hygienist call her name she quickly ran over and grabbed my hand to walk back. Thankfully, Autumn's pediatric dentist allows parents to go back with the child for the first visit. I think this is beneficial for all involved.

Autumn seemed a little timid at first but quickly warmed up to the dental hygienist helping us. Before long she was reclined in the dental chair getting her teeth cleaned like a pro! The dentist came over, counted to make sure that all of her teeth were there, talked to us about what to expect in the future and gave Autumn a few teeth brushing tips.

Autumn took a few minutes at the "treasure chest" deciding which trinket she would like to take with her and then we were off with one more "first" under our belts.

Autumn actually enjoyed her first dentist appointment. She smiled a little bigger that day and reminded me more than once of how beautiful her teeth were, having been professionally cleaned and all.

I am relieved that Autumn had a smooth introduction to the dentist's office because my blonde hair and blue eyes may not be the only things that she inherits. There is a distinct possibility that she will have many, many more dental appointments in her future.

She can thank me for that later.