Preston's Pearly Whites

When I told Preston he was going to the dentist, I wasn't sure what sort of a reaction to expect. Surprisingly Preston told me all about it. "Dentist Mommy! Lay down. Light in mouth. Teeth clean." Thank you Sesame Street! No further explanation needed.

Preston was truly excited as we walked up the steps to the dentist's office. He even picked out his shark shirt to wear, as it had lots of teeth on it! The waiting area was a toddler playground...a carousel horse, children's books, games, and the friendliest staff I'd ever met. But I guess at a pediatric office, the staff is required to lay the smiles and happiness on thick!

We walked in and Preston was telling everyone "Hi!". The staff, other children, and their parents. At check-in I was given a sticker with Preston's name on it. He was thrilled and proudly put it on the arm of his shirt. Before long our name was called and Preston led us down the hall to his room, as if he'd been there many times before.

The hygienist explained to Preston that she was going to brush his teeth then give him a fluoride treatment. She put on her gloves, and gave him a pair to wear as well. He gave them to me to put in his bag, and stood their like a champ, allowing his teeth to be cleaned.

Next he sat on my lap in the chair, opened his mouth wide without hesitation, and the hygienist scraped off what little plaque he had. I was beaming with pride. What a champ!

And the dentist thought so, too! Dr. O'Brien went on and on about what a delight Preston was, and if only all little patients were as cooperative and charming. Truly, Preston was at the top of his social game. Conversing with everyone he met, it was hard for even me to believe he was only two!

As Dr. O'Brien was leaving our room to tend to the next patient, Preston said, "Thank you dentist. See you later." [Adorable]

On the way out Preston was given a goodie bag, picked out a new toothbrush (Mater from the Cars movie), and took his 'token' to the toy tower. The toy tower was similar to one of those toy/bubble gum machines that take 50 cents in return for a prize in a plastic container. Preston chose to put his token in the machine that had hundreds of small, plastic puppies. We took home what appeared to be a beagle.

I was then given Preston's "Oral Health Report Card". Jeremy and I scored a 16 out of 18 total points, as he had a little plaque build-up on his upper front/lip side teeth and NO CAVITIES. I'd say that Preston scored a 16/18, but it's us parents (mainly Jeremy, actually) that do the cleaning! The dentist also noted that Preston had a bit of an overbite, but it may work itself out as he grows older. Only time will tell.

I nearly forgot...since it was Preston's first visit, we were given a complimentary pic of us with Dr. O'Brien. We've had this on our fridge ever since. Preston likes to look at it and talk about the big day!