What Has Possessed Me?

Avery had her first visit with the dentist last week and I couldn't be more pleased with how it went.

We visited a pediatric dentist recommended by our pediatrician, whose office also happened to be right next door. I kid you not, these two offices share a wall, so, not only was it super convenient, I was pleased to find a dentist that my pediatrician had no qualms sending her patients to.

About a week prior to her appointment, we really started building it up to Avery by describing what the dentist and hygenist were going to do and her role in the process. We certainly didn't want her first visit to be a traumatic experience and by the time d-day was here, Avery was very excited about going. We had an early appointment and we were in and out in 35 minutes.

The first thing they did were x-rays, funnily, the one thing I forgot to prepare her for. But she followed instructions well and they were able to get her upper and lower bites. Her back teeth were a bit more of a challenge because she kept spitting the thingy out or gagging on it. Next time, they said.

The actual exam and cleaning area was a large open space that had about five stations. The hygenist explained to me that it helps encourage kids getting their teeth cleaned to see other kids getting their teeth cleaned too. Naturally, they have private rooms for those who are less comfortable.

The hygenist then sat with Avery and explained everything to her; what she was going to do, all her tools, even her funny mask and the moving chair. Of course, offering up a goodie bag with Hello Kitty toothpaste didn't hurt either.

Making friends and getting the run-down.

A smile for mommy!

Letting the hygenist look at and count her teeth...

...all 20 of them.

Because the overhead lamps are bright!

My dentist doesn't offer me cool shades!

Cleaning. Avery definitely didn't care for the grainy goop.

But she managed.

She really liked the rinsing and suctioning.