Your child’s first trip to the dentist is a very special time in their life.  Just like the first haircut, it can be fraught with fright.  In the days before, it is best prepare them with positive comments.  Statements like – “It will be a lot of fun”, or “They will shine your teeth so you have a pretty smile” go a much longer way than -“Oh, it won’t hurt”.  In our office, we go out of our way to make that first visit a special occasion.  We don’t force anything on them, but we positively reinforce good behavior each time they try something new.  We have TVs in the ceiling that can play cartoons.  That goes a long way to soothing any uneasiness.  Then, to cap off the visit, there is a trip to the treasure chest filled with toys.  And hopefully, there will be a picture taken to display in the “No Cavities Club”.  Having a good experience during the first trip to the dentist can be tantamount in having good behavior in future visits.