Cayley posted 2 weeks ago
I’ll be honest… I’ve never been a fan of the dentist. In fact, I have a real fear of going, and it’s something I’ve always dreaded.
And when I became a mum, one of the things I really didn’t want was for my little boy to grow up feeling the same way.
I wanted his experience of the dentist to be completely different from mine. I wanted him to see it as something normal, nothing to be scared of, and just another part of looking after himself.
So, when it was time to book his very first dental check-up, I knew I wanted to get it right. And that’s how we ended up at Happy Kids Dental in Wimbledon. 🧡
I think, as parents, we sometimes carry our own worries and experiences into things without even realising it. I knew that if I was feeling anxious about taking him to the dentist, I really didn’t want those feelings to rub off on him.
From the moment we walked into Happy Kids Dental, I felt reassured. The space was welcoming, with toys, games and colouring activities to help little ones feel comfortable. It didn’t have that intimidating feeling I’ve always associated with dental appointments.
But what really stood out to me was how the appointment itself was handled.
The dentist, Anum Kayani, was so lovely with my son. She didn’t rush him or expect him to sit still and cooperate straight away. Instead, she gave him time to explore, play and get used to the room before even attempting to look at his teeth. Everything was done so patiently, with lots of encouragement and in a way that made the whole experience feel more like a game than a medical appointment.
And honestly, watching him feel so comfortable made me realise just how important these early experiences can be.
I also loved that the appointment wasn’t simply about having a quick look at his teeth and heading home. We had a really helpful chat about nutrition, looking after little teeth, dummies and all the questions that come with navigating dental health as a parent.
It was reassuring to have the chance to ask questions and learn more about how to look after his teeth as he grows. There are so many things you think about when you have a toddler, and sometimes the basics can feel surprisingly overwhelming!
And then came my son’s favourite part… 😂
At the end of the appointment, he got to put a special coin into the prize tower and watch his surprise roll out. He was absolutely fascinated! He also came away with a little gift bag containing a toothbrush, water bottle, bubbles and toys.
A very happy toddler, and a very relieved mum.
I know one dental visit doesn’t guarantee that he’ll never feel nervous about the dentist. And I also know that some children will naturally find these experiences harder than others.
But what I can do is try to give him a positive starting point.
I want him to grow up understanding that looking after his teeth is just part of looking after himself. I don’t want my own fear to become his fear, and I hope that by making these visits feel safe, familiar and positive from the beginning, we can build a healthier relationship with dental care.
And perhaps, in the process, I might even learn a thing or two from him about being a little less afraid myself. 🥹
If you’re a parent who feels nervous about the dentist, I completely understand. It’s not always easy to put your own feelings aside, even when it’s for your little one.
For us, choosing a child-friendly practice where there was no pressure and everything happened at his pace made such a difference.
We visited @happykidsdental in Wimbledon, and I’m so glad we did.
Here’s to raising little ones who feel confident looking after their smiles, one tiny tooth at a time. 🦷🧡
Have you taken your little one for their first dental check-up yet? I’d love to hear how you found it — especially if, like me, you’re someone who gets a little nervous about the dentist!
