Fear of the dentist or anxiety about seeking routine preventative dental care is more common than many would imagine. According to the director of the Dental Fears Research Clinic, roughly 5-8% of Americans avoid dental offices out of fear, and an additional 20% of Americans only seek out dental care when absolutely necessary. Many people cite the lack of control as one major contributing factor to their fear. For children, there is the additional fear of the unknown playing into their apprehension when it comes time to visit the dentist. As a parent, there are steps that can be taken to help your child have a positive attitude leading up to and during a dental visit.
Communicate Honestly
Talk to your child openly and honestly about the dentist. They will likely have questions. Take time to answer them as much as you are able. If they know what to expect children are less likely to be afraid. Consider reading a book about a first dentist trip so kids are familiar with the process and some of the equipment they will be seeing. It may even be fun to do a pretend visit at home where you can practice brushing, flossing, and counting teeth.
Avoid Scary Terms and Too Much Detail
When talking about the dentist, keep it simple. While honesty is important, going into too many details (especially with a young child) will likely only raise more questions, generate “worst case scenario” fears, and increase anxiety. Often dentists have unique terms for their dental equipment and special ways they like to talk to young patients to prepare them. They typically avoid terms such as “shot” and “cavity.”
Find a Dentist You Trust
Many family dentists like Smith Family Dental are excellent with children. Take time and find a dentist that can connect with your child and has the patience to make them feel safe. Keep in mind that when your kids see that you trust the dentist they are more likely to trust and feel comfortable with them as well.
Start Early
It is important to help establish a healthy dentist and patient relationship early in life. This helps prevent a child from developing a fear of the dentist. Practicing good oral hygiene at home also helps lead to more comfort in the dental chair. If a child is used to having their teeth brushed, someone putting instruments in their mouth will be less foreign and scary to them.
Trips to the dentist can be nerve wracking for parent and child alike. Try to remain calm even if you child gets upset. Remind them that the dentist is there to help them make sure they have a white, bright, healthy, strong and beautiful smile!
