Prepare children for first dental visit Published Feb. 18, 2014 By 60th Dental Squadron 60th Dental Squadron TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- It's that time of year again for annual dental checkups and cleanings and all you can think is, "I hate the dentist." Now imagine what your child is thinking when it's his or her turn. The first dental appointment should be before a child's first birthday. When preparing them for their first visit, here are some tips on making it an enjoyable one. Tech. Sgt. Demarris Rivera, 60th Dental Squadron registered dental hygienist, recommends the following preventative measures should be taken by parents to protect their child's teeth from cavities: · Help brush their teeth two times a day for one minute with a child's toothbrush. · Help floss in between teeth one time a day with regular floss or floss picks. · Eat a well-balanced diet according to MyPyramid diet guideline. "Parents can add to a pleasant first visit by prepping their child on what dentists or dental hygienists do and what they look for during an appointment," said Capt. (Dr.) Kimberly Burford, 60th DS. For example: · Exam instruments, or teeth counters. · X-rays to take pictures of their teeth. · Cleaning instruments such as the suction that looks like a silly straw or the polishing cup that looks like a whirly bird. After the appointment, you should be sure to praise your child on how well they did. "The dentist will also reward your child with a prize for good behavior," Rivera said. Remember to always present a visit to the dentist as a positive experience, not a punishment.