First dentist visit

Tesla went to the dentist for the first time today. I know the books recommend starting at 2 years but I just couldn't imagine it being useful when there was little way to bargain and coax her into keeping her mouth open at that age. At 3, however, it was actually a pleasant and fun experience. We took her to a kid-specific place that had lots of stuffed animals, a movie on the ceiling to watch while lying down, and lots of goodies to get after the appointment. Dav and I were surprised at how well Tesla listened to instructions and let the dentist poke around. The staff were very patient, and let her touch each tool with her fingers before using it on her so she knew what to expect.

Her teeth are good, but we do need to start working on having Tesla stop sucking her thumb. We'll try positive reinforcement and encouragement first, and hopefully won't have to use other drastic, rather mean enforcement that would be needed if she doesn't stop by 5 and hopes not to have her front teeth pushed out.

After being such a good patient, Tesla got a balloon, stickers, a sugar-free lollipop, and a bag of goodies such as toothpaste and a toothbrush.

[click on the pics to enlarge and see her expressions : ) ]

It wasn't raining today, but Tesla wanted to wear her ladybug raincoat. We went to our local coffee shop, Farley's, then took her to the carousel which I had promised we'd do once Dav got back from his trip last week. Tesla remembered that promise! The cute thing was she had her raincoat and blue balloon from the dentist all day long!