Say Ahh

Today the kids went to the dentist.  Tessie has been once before, but it was Christian’s first time.  Nick’s step-dad is our dentist so, luckily for the kids, going tot he dentist is really just going to see Grandpa.  Christian’s pediatrician wanted his teeth checked a little earlier than usual because of his prematurity, and I wasn’t sure if he was going to allow his mouth to be examined.  The first time Tes got her teeth checked she was very hesitant, and would barely open her mouth, even for Grandpa.

So I was a little unsure how today’s visit was going to go.  Christian was up first.  He sat on my lap in the dentist chair and we tried to prompt him to open his mouth.  He did alright, considering he is two, and if it’s not on his agenda he usually doesn’t want to do it.  After he got his toy for being a big boy, it was Tessie’s turn.  She was definitely the star of the show today. 

Tessie climbed up in the chair all by herself.  The hygienist made the chair go up as high as it could, and Tessie looked cautiously pleased.  “I’m a little afraid.” she said as it raised, but she was smiling and didn’t ask to come down.  When her grandpa came in she listened carefully as he told her about the light and the little mirror he used to look at her teeth.  When asked to, she opened her mouth wide, and let him look at all her teeth.    I was so proud of her.

Tessie was beaming as she was told her teeth were strong and healthy.  She proudly told her Grandpa that she brushed her teeth every morning after breakfast, and every night before bed.  She handed her brother his new toothbrush and we walked to the car together.  I was proud of both kids, but especially of my daughter.  The difference between her first and second visits was huge.  And as silly as it may seem, seeing her laying in the dentist chair saying “Aaaahhhhh...” was a beautiful sight.