Day At The Dentist

Just this past week we had a family day at the dentist.  Most of you probably think that doesn't sound like too much fun.  But for me, I was ecstatic!  I absolutely LOVE going to the dentist and to top it off, this would be Tessa's first official trip.  We had brought her to our dental office in Omaha back when she was two (per our pediatrician's recommendation) so that she could become familiar with an office visit.  She enjoyed herself then, but I still wasn't sure how it would go since she would be the big three year old sitting in the chair this time.  Well, as you can see from the photo below, she wasn't nervous at all because what's not to enjoy when you can watch your favorite show during a cleaning!  Thank you fate for Mickey being on TV during this hour!!!  

Once the hygienist was ready to begin, she showed Tessa all the equipment she would be using and let her touch and hold each of them.  I really loved how they explained each step to her and made sure she was comfortable during all of it.   

Tessa picked Strawberry flavored polish and she said it tasted very "yummy." 

It was time for the dentist to come in and count all the pearly whites and take a closer look.  As so many of you parents can attest, getting a child to brush their teeth and to brush them well is no easy fete.  I was worried we'd receive an unfavorable report; but believe it or not, her teeth looked great!

At the end of it all, Tessa was able to pick out a new toothbrush.  The hygienist told her they had plenty of princess ones to choose from.  Miss Tess began to frown, looked at her, and then looked at me and softly said she didn't want one.  I wasn't sure why as she seemed so excited initially.  What she meant was that she didn't want a princess toothbrush.  She turned back to the hygienist and asked if she could have Mickey Mouse.  Luckily they found one in another room and she couldn't have been happier.

The final event for being such a good girl during her cleaning was to go to the treasure chest and pick out a toy.  She left with some stickers and a bracelet - what a negotiator!

By the end of our 2+ hour trip, we had three successful dental appointments.  I was so glad that we had done our "research" and decided on this office - we had such a great experience.  

Oh, I am certain none of you could look at these pictures and not notice the fact that my child is wearing neon green ball socks with red sequin shoes - all I have to say is "some days you pick your battles." ;)