Q: My child is shy. She may need a little help from me in the exam room.

A: A lot of kids act shy in the treatment room—and shy kids usually turn into our most engaging patients. You can help—but perhaps not in ways you expect. Here’s what you can do ...

Walk with your child to the treatment room. Tell your child that you will be in the waiting room and that you will be right in if the child needs you. Then be as good as your word—wait in the waiting room.

Understand that we are trying to build a relationship with your child. We are prepared to be patient for as long as it takes to do this. So when we ask your child a question, we hope you will allow your child to answer. It’s helpful when parents understand that the answer isn’t what’s important—in fact, we probably already know the answer. The question is simply a building block in our new relationship.

Q: How can I best prepare my child for the Novocain shot? I want to explain that the shot will only hurt for a few minutes.

A: Why worry your child for nothing? We don’t give Novocain shots in this office. We use "sleepy drops." You can assure your child that everything will be explained before the appointment by Dr. Coppe and the staff.

Q: Will my child be frightened by the equipment in the dental chair?

A: It’s true that your child will see some amazing new things. But the dental assistants, hygienists and Dr. Coppe will talk about everything we use. Here are some of the things your child will learn about:

— the mouth mirror;
— the tooth counter;
— the raincoat for cavities and sealants;
— the camera; and
— fluoride.