I am very thankful that I have been fortunate enough to find this Dentist Office. The entire staff are very pleasant and genuinely care about a good outcome regardless of your situation. You could not ask for better. Dr. Parker is great…😀 …

Taking young children to the dentist can be a daunting experience for both parents and kids. However, with a little preparation and the right mindset, you can turn these visits into a positive experience. Our family-friendly team will do all we can to help keep your kids happy at the dentist.
If you can assist you in any way, call River Oaks Dental Care at 256-274-8680. In the meantime, check out our tips to help your children’s appointments go as smoothly as possible:
- Start Early – Introduce your child to the dentist around the age of 2. Early visits help normalize the experience and build familiarity with the environment.
- Prepare Them in Advance – Talk to your child about what to expect. Use simple language and positive reinforcement. Explain that the dentist will check their teeth and may use some cool tools. Books and videos about dental visits can also help set expectations.
- Play Pretend – Role-playing can be a fun way to ease anxiety. Use a toy dentist kit to practice being the dentist or the patient. This can help your child feel more comfortable with the idea of someone looking in their mouth.
- Keep It Positive – Focus on the positives of visiting the dentist. Explain that the dentist helps keep their teeth healthy and strong. Avoid using scary language or describing procedures in a negative light.
- Schedule Wisely – Choose a time for the appointment when your child is usually well-rested and in a good mood. Mornings right after breakfast or early afternoons can be ideal. Avoid scheduling appointments during nap times or after a long day at school.
- Bring Comfort Items – Allow your child to bring a favorite toy or blanket to the appointment. Having a familiar item can provide comfort and security during what might feel like a strange experience.
- Stay Calm – Children often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If you appear anxious or nervous, your child may feel the same way. Stay calm and positive throughout the appointment to help reassure your child.
- Add a Positive Reward – Create a reward system for after the visit. Plan a fun activity or small treat, like a sticker or a trip to the park. This gives your child something to look forward to and can make the experience feel more rewarding.
- Follow Up at Home – After the appointment, talk about how well your child did. Praise their bravery and discuss the importance of dental health. Reinforce good habits at home by encouraging regular brushing and flossing.
At River Oaks Dental Care, we keep young kids – and adults too – happy at the dentist. Call 256-274-8680 or schedule online to set up an appointment in Decatur, AL.