My Brave Little Boy's Funny Dental Check-up

             We went to the dentist last Monday; I scheduled the appointment days before. I asked for the off-peak time, and just as I’ve wanted, we were the only patient that afternoon. Back when Shaun was just 3 years old, hubby and I tried to convince him for 15 minutes! to seat on the dental chair for a check-up, but we ended up going home as our little boy refused to even open his mouth for the dentist. Thank goodness, this last visit was a success.

So this time, we did our best to prepare Shaun even before leaving the house. When we got to the clinic, our son immediately looked for the comfort room to pee.  Hubby had his teeth checked first, to show Shaun of what was about to happen and that it doesn’t hurt at all. While waiting for his turn, he then told me that he needed to poop, but he didn’t.  Well, butterflies in his stomach, I guess! I just told him to relax. LOL

The dentist said he already has some cavities in his molar teeth, which needs to get drilled, cleaned and filled before it gets worse and painful. So we agreed. The dentist patiently explained the procedure, in a way that a 4-year old would understand. Next, she gave him a mirror (to gain his trust) and switched the TV channel to cartoons (to distract him). And then with daddy and me beside him, the dentist completed the cleaning with two fillings in just about 30 minutes.

            I truly appreciate how the doctor helped our child to be calm. Like when she was about to put a bonding agent to his tooth. She noticed that Shaun became a little nervous to see the flowable syringe she's holding; he thought there was a needle. The dentist immediately kept it and used a tiny brush instead. Then told him that she’s just going to do a little painting on his tooth.

We were informed by the dentist that a child’s teeth may start to fall out at around five years old. But the front teeth don’t usually fall out until age seven. So regular visit to the clinic is recommended, to see if there’s a dental procedure needed.

I’m just so glad that Shaun’s first tooth filling experience went well.

Thanks Dra.!

Great job little man, you’re so brave!

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A Letter to my Son

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