Dental Visit

The dentist is the doctor who cares for the mouth. Some of his/her duties are: examining the teeth and gums; restoring cavities; straightening crowded and crooked teeth; cleaning teeth; and teaching individuals to care for their own teeth and gums. Regular visits to the dentist should begin between the ages of 2 and 3 years, earlier if problems arise.

The dentist may employ dental hygienists, assistants and receptionists.

The dental hygienist provides preventive care such as cleaning teeth. The dental assistant has many responsibilities, including helping the dentist and dental hygienist. The dental receptionist greets the patients and makes appointments.

With a special camera, the dentist, dental hygienist, or dental assistant may take pictures of the teeth called x-rays. These pictures aid the dentist in checking all areas of the mouth.

The dentist and dental hygienist use special instruments. These instruments may be a small mirror or a pointed instrument called an explorer. They will use a bright light to illuminate the mouth in order to properly see all features.

The dentist or dental hygienist clean the teeth with a special toothpaste. Air and water may be sprayed in the mouth to remove the toothpaste and dry the teeth. They may also apply fluoride to the teeth. This helps make the teeth stronger.

If any cavities are found in the teeth, the dentist will repair and restore these teeth with a silver color material. The dental assistant may be available to help.

Activities

1. Have children show each other their silver color fillings or other types of restorations and discuss their experiences at the dentist.

2. Have children role play a visit to the dentist. Select individual children to be the dentist, dental hygienists, assistants, receptionist and patients.

3. Have children draw pictures of the dental office, staff, and things they might see at the dental office.

Spelling Magic Activity

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