Children’s Dental Care: How to Ease Your Child’s Fear of Appointments

When it comes to being a parent, we all have hard choices to make. The health of your child is of the utmost importance, so you want to make smart decisions when it comes to their health care needs. This includes dental visits. Both parents and dentists play a vital role in the well-being of the child and can help make the appointment less stressful by being positive and uplifting. As the parent, it is important to learn how to ease your child’s fear of the dentist, helping them to be relaxed and ready for an appointment.

Fear

Most every child will have some type of fear when it comes to going to the doctor. Going to the dentist is often a foreign concept and we fear what we do not know. By talking to your child about their fear, you can help them overcome what is bothering them and look forward to the dental visit. Or at least be able to go to the dentist in a relaxed state of mind.
A child picks up on the fear of others as well as anxiety. As the parent, you must stay calm and be able to have a positive attitude so that your child will be more willing to go the appointment without tears or possible screaming.

Talk About the Appointment

When you have an upcoming appointment, talk to your child about it, if they show a fear of the dentist. Explain what the appointment is for, answering any questions your child may have to the best of your ability. Being positive will help to prepare your child and ease their fears.
Do not talk about an unpleasant experience at the dentist around your child. If they hear you talking in a negative manner, they will then begin to see the dentist as a negative experience. This will place more stress and anxiety on your child that is unneeded.

Choose a Children’s Dentist

One of the most important decisions you can make regarding oral health for your child is choosing their dentist. It is essential that you choose an individual who has a nice demeanor and is good with children. Visit a children’s dental office to learn more about pediatric care and see a dentist in action.
By reviewing the office and seeing how the staff interacts with children on-site, you will be better able to make a decision for your child’s dental needs. It is totally normal for a child to be fearful of the dentist and the dentist should be aware of this.
A pediatric dentist knows how to care for smaller patients in a way that makes them feel comfortable and at ease. Working with a loving and friendly dentist, will help your child to feel better about going to the dentist.
Overall, do your very best to make a dental visit fun and appealing. By talking to your child on a regular basis, you can help them feel better and be prepared for any upcoming cleanings or procedures.
Contact us today to learn more about our pediatric services for young children or to schedule an appointment.