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Words matter at kids' dental visits



For younger children, a trip to the dentist office can seem scary. In our office, we aim to make easy for them (and fun, given that we have a giant slide in our lobby!). Children pick up on what is said and unsaid, which is why we use "soft" words when describing some of our instruments and procedures.


When it comes to little kids, we encourage parents to use softer replacement words, such as: Do not say............Our equivalent

Needle or shot.....Sleepy juice

Drill........................Mr. Whistle

Pull a tooth............Wiggle a tooth

Decay or cavity......Sugar bug

Examination...........Count teeth

Teeth cleaning........Tickle teeth

Nitrous oxide gas...Happy air


Children are resilient, strong, fierce and funny. They’ll learn the true terminology later in life, but for now, in this sweet and all-too-short time of childhood, softness wins.


 

Brought to you by:


treehousekidsdental.com

1611 J street Springfield, OR

541-515-6631

office@treehousekidsdental.com



Dr. Erin Estep is a board-certified pediatric dentist who owns Treehouse Kids Dentist in Springfield. She and her staff are committed to making sure your child has an amazing, safe, memorable dental experience.






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