Exercise 5
Playing Dentist - The Mirror
TOOL:
Dental Mirror
Download the exercise in PDF format.
reminder
In all these exercises,
be sure to apply the
CORE PRINCIPLES
'Sandwich'
DISCOVERY
Explore the dental mirror together. Let the child hold, touch, and play with it under your supervision. Have fun observing various objects with the mirror and get the child used to its contact. Touch other parts of the body with the mirror, gradually moving closer to the mouth (e.g., hands, arms, chin, cheeks, lips, tongue).
EXEMPLE / EDUCATION
Show the child how to use the mirror to examine the teeth and the inside of the mouth, either by doing it on yourself, using their favorite toy (like a doll or a teddy bear), or on another family member. You can start by playing a game of counting teeth (mom’s/dad’s or the toy’s) and then introduce the mirror.
TAKE TURNS
Take turns using the mirror, counting the seconds: first look in your mouth, then in the child’s mouth.
ENACTMENT
The dentist game! Take on the role of the dentist and position the child on a "dentist chair," which can be a beach chair, a recliner or a regular sofa adjusted with cushions to simulate a reclining position. Start by counting the teeth and gently touching the mouth and gums with your other hand, which will increase their tolerance to oral touch during dental visits. Then, use the mirror to look at the upper and lower teeth. Count a few seconds, stop when there is discomfort, and praise the child. Over time, increase the duration of the exercise.
