Our Dental Rock Star

Jackson had his first dentist visit yesterday and was a total super star. We talked a lot about the visit and I tried to set his expectations over the last week, but I had no idea what to expect.  I have to admin, I assumed the worst, but I'm happy to report that he greatly surpassed my expectations.  There were no tears, they were able to do a full cleaning, he didn't once say "I don't wanna say hi!", he talked to his hygienist, dentist and the receptionist, and it was all around an enjoyable visit (as enjoyable as having your teeth cleaned could be).  It helped that everyone was wearing their Seahawks jersey, which is something Jackson has just gotten really into (he hated his jerseys for awhile, and wouldn't even think about putting them on, but over the last few weeks, has begged to wear them multiple times throughout the week).

The hygienist was great - she started the appointment off by turning on Toy Story for him to watch, showing him all the tools (which all had special names, like "Mr. Thirsty" (i.e. the spit sucker) of course), and then letting him feel and touch the tools.  She mentioned that sometimes, they don't do anything more than this on the first visit, but Jackson willingly let her clean his teeth, including using the plaque scraper and floss.  He did a great job laying very still, keeping his mouth open wide and listening to her directions.  The dentist said everything looked good so far, and was impressed at how well behaved J was, considering many of the 2-year olds, especially boys, don't tend to cooperate much. 

I'd say the thing that made him the most nervous was when the hygienist went to tip the "big boy" chair back...he didn't quite know what to do, except sit straight up as the chair went back.  Oops.

His favorite part was using Mr. Thirsty - he loved that thing, mostly because I think it resembled a straw, which he thorough enjoys.

He was rewarded with his choice of toothbrush and bath toy, some jelly beans, and a trip to Starbucks before I took him into school for the day.  He must have known he was extra good and deserved a special treat, as he picked out chocolate milk with his mini scone (he normally just gets plain milk).  Poor kid - he definitely has his mama's sweet tooth.