We took the Sugar Snaps to the dentist who also happens to be their uncle. We have found that they do better with outings if we prepare them by talking about it for a few days beforehand. I played a game with the Sugar Snaps, telling them, “we are going to see Uncle David and he’s going to look at your armpits.” They all responded, “no!” Then, I would make the same statement using another body part, such as their feet. They eventually corrected me indignantly and told me that he would be looking at their teeth. We went through this routine each morning for a few days before their appointment so when they saw him, they were not at all surprised that he wanted to examine their teeth.
Capri had fun peeking out of the top window of the playhouse at the dentist’s office
while Grayson hung out of the window on the bottom floor.
Ryder was very cooperative while Uncle David examined his teeth.
Xayden cuddled with the jungle animals
before his teeth were examined.
Overall, they did very well on their second trip to the dentist. If you missed their first trip, you can check it out here. I typically brush their teeth three times a day and then floss while I sing, “did you ever see a Lassie go this way and that way” to remind myself to go around each tooth in a ‘C’ shape both ways. Luckily, the regular brushing and flossing paid off with no cavities and only a tiny bit of tartar on Xayden’s teeth.
Xayden sucks his thumb when he sleeps and we found out this has caused a problem by pushing his top teeth out of shape. Uncle David could tell which thumb he sucks just by looking at his upper teeth. Xayden will need to wear an apparatus in about six months which will correct the problem and prevent him from sucking his thumb any more (because the metal would poke him if he tried). I am glad it can be fixed but I am not looking forward to Xayden’s reaction to this apparatus. I will let you know how it goes. His thumb is his friend, complete with a callous of devotion. How have our family trips to the dentist gone? I would love to read your stories (or posts if you have them).
I LOVE that you call them the Sugarsnaps! As adorable as they are. And they look like they did great. I, too, like to prepare my daughter for things ahead of time. I think it's a great strategy!
Hi Rachel (of Tao of Poop)
I think it is one of those things that you learn after becoming a parent–preparing ahead. It sound like your daughter really appreciates that too. I have to admit that I also like to know what's on my schedule for the day or week. It is comforting to have some idea of what is going on. Have a wonderful weekend.
: 0 ) Theresa