Isaac's turn in the dentist's chair

 The week before last, Isaac had his very first trip to the dentist. Even though the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends regular check-ups starting at 12 months or when the first tooth erupts (!?!), our old dentist in Alexandria said he thought it really wasn't necessary before age three because kids often don't want to sit still or open their mouths. He said those early visits are mostly just to provide education for the parents: no soda, not too much juice, brush after your child brushes and no raisins or other gummy snacks (um... oh no, never). So, we waited until Amelia was almost three to take her, and we had never taken Isaac. But three years is right around the corner for our little man now, so off we went to his first dental visit.

He was sooooo excited. In the days before his appointment, he asked several times if it was time to go to the dentist yet. We often talk about the dentist when trying to get our kids to cooperate with our teeth brushing at home. "Hi, Isaac. My name is Dr. Susannah and I'm your dentist. Open your mouth big like an alligator for me. Oh, wow. Your teeth look great! You must be a really good cooperator with your parents!" It really does work sometimes. :)  And today was finally the big day with the REAL dentist.

Our hygienist, Rhonda, was really sweet and explained everything to Isaac before she did anything. She let him ride up and down in the special chair, squirted the water for him, let him touch the spinning brush, and showed him how "Mr. Thirsty" sucks the water out of his mouth.

Isaac was super, duper cooperative while Rhonda counted and cleaned all 20 of his teeth. He kept his mouth open wide and did everything Rhonda asked him.

Then, Dr. Roberts came in and showed Isaac his cool tools (like his tiny mirror) and gave Isaac a thumbs up for his great-looking teeth with plenty of spaces for big teeth one day.

After his great appointment, Isaac got to choose something from the treasure chest. He immediately chose a bouncy ball (a big favorite with him right now). Then Rhonda said he could choose a second prize because he was cavity-free. What do you think he chose? Another bouncy ball, of course!

p.s. A blogspot/blogger miracle: all my photos downloaded and pasted in the correct order the very first time. Hallelujah!