David at the Dentist

At David's 3 year doctor appointment our pediatrician told us that since David has all of his teeth he needed to start going to the dentist! So, that's exactly what we did today!

He recommended several dentists, some pediatric dentists others general practices. I chose a pediatric dentist and I am SO very glad I did. I want David [and Rachael] to like, as much as one can, the dentist. Growing up, I adored my dentist and was never afraid of going. So, I want that for my kids. 

The entire office was decorated with a fun beach theme. Even the waiting room had this super cool aquarium with tropical fish.

When it was time for David to go back, both kids rode in the red wagon used to transport any small children who want a ride. How fun!

Once we got back to our brightly colored room with sea gulls and pelicans flying on the walls, the nice hygienist came in. She was incredibly sweet and showed David [and Rachael] all the fun tools the dentist would be using to check out his teeth. 

David said he was excited for the dentist to come in and climbed up in the chair.

Rachael wanted to join him, but David wasn't so sure.

And then we waited for the doctor.....

And waited....I had to break out the "emergency toys" from the diaper bag to keep them happy and not destroy everything in the room.

Finally! The dentist came in and I quickly realized what took her so long. She pulled up a chair propped up on the counter next to her and talked to David like she had all the time in the world. 

He was a bit shy when she came in and got scared when she put her mask on. When it came time for him to get up in the chair he was hesitant. So, the dentist suggested I get in the chair with him. And that's where the pictures end. 

I was hoping to get some cute images of the dentist actually cleaning and checking David's teeth. But, instead you'll just have to imagine- me, David, AND Rachael all in that dentist chair. The dentist trying to instruct a 3 year old to open his mouth so she could stick this crazy looking teeth cleaner in his mouth. Rachael pushing up against me trying to get a better view to see exactly what the dentist is doing [losing both her shoes in the process]. Me trying to simultaneously hold and support a nervous David while keeping Rachael from falling out of the chair or into the dentist's hands. 

It was quite a scene and one we [the dentist, assistant hygienist, and I] had to laugh at when it was all over. 

In the end, the report on David's teeth was GREAT! The dentist was envious of David's "natural spacing". His teeth and gums are healthy and look perfect! And David's already looking forward to next time.