Unfortunately, dental visits usually aren’t at the top of most kids’ wish lists. However, children must establish healthy dental habits early on in life. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), children should see a pediatric dentist by their first birthday and regularly throughout their life. Getting their child comfortable with the dentist can be challenging for some parents. Children are notorious for having irrational fears and phobias that may make them reluctant to return to the dentist’s office anytime soon. Here is how you can help your child overcome dental anxiety and get through appointments.
How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety
Schedule regular check-ups
It is essential to make regular dental check-ups a part of your child’s schedule. Doing so will help the child get used to the dentist and the dental office environment. It will also allow the dentist to evaluate your child’s oral health and provide necessary treatment if required. This visit is about creating a healthy oral hygiene foundation for life. It will include looking at how a child’s gums fit over their teeth, inspecting the inside of their mouth for signs of bacteria, and checking for tooth decay.
Find an understanding dentist to help your child overcome dental anxiety
When you first start going to the dentist with your child, make sure to find a dentist such as Martinson family and cosmetic dentistry who is understanding, patient, and experienced in dealing with young patients. The last thing you want is a dental professional who is not sensitive to your child’s needs. Ask friends and family members for recommendations, or visit your local dental society to find a pediatric dentist in your area.
Answer as many questions as you can
Try to answer as many questions as you can. Your child may be anxious or unsure about what they are experiencing, and they might feel too embarrassed to speak up and ask. Some questions you may want to prepare for include:
- What is that smell?
- If your child asks you a question, answer it to the best of your ability.
- What is the dentist doing?
- If treatment will hurt, how can the dentist make it stop?
- What is that noise?
- If you don’t know the answer, let them know you will find out.
Go at their pace
If your child is feeling anxious, try to go at their pace. Let them sit in the dental chair as long as they need to. Let them have some breaks if they need them. If your child is having a tough time, let the dentist know. Let them know that your child may need more time and breaks. If your child is still young and has trouble sitting still, try to take them to the dentist while they’re sleeping. It is an excellent option for very young children who are too young to sit in a chair or be awake when going to the dentist.
Prepare before the appointment
At the same time, try to prepare before the appointment. If your child is going to be having any treatment, make sure they are comfortable and feel OK. Bring them any toys or other things that they might find comforting. If your child is getting teeth removed or a filling, let them know before the appointment that the dentist will be doing something that might be uncomfortable. It can help them manage their fears and anxieties.
Recap: Overcome Dental Anxiety
Going to the dentist for the first time can be scary for young children. Relaxation can help children feel more comfortable in the dentist’s office. If your child is nervous about visiting the dentist, try relaxation methods like deep breathing, meditation, or visualization. It is essential to encourage children to visit the dentist as often as possible to get their teeth cleaned and to prevent tooth decay and other oral diseases. A visit to the dentist is the best way to maintain oral health.
