Going to the dentist is not something that most individuals usually look forward to, but it is a required step to preserve good oral health. It can be a frightening experience when it comes to taking children to the dentist. Even adults are reluctant or unwilling to pay a visit to the dentist’s office, so it is important that their children see the dentist as a helpful and even enjoyable place to go. There are some things you can do to help ease their concerns and make the experience something they can look forward to rather than be afraid of if your child is nervous about their next dental appointment.
A trip to the dentist can trigger some anxiety for a child, but it doesn’t have to be that way. To set the groundwork for a lifetime of healthy habits, it is important to make your child’s trip to the dentist as enjoyable as possible.
Here is how to make dental care fun for your kids.
1. Be sure to pick up a pediatric dentist who is great with kids.
Does your dentist specialize in treating patients who are young? This will make an immense difference. The dentist you go to might not be your child’s best option. There are, however, several dentists who, concentrating on family dentistry, treat both adults and children. Three generations of patients have treated many of them!
2. Display “a dental report card” off.
Your child will be afraid that cavities leading to fillings would be discovered by the dentist. This anxiety will make them anxious. Print out this nifty calendar to inspire your kids to build healthy oral health habits, perhaps using stickers to demonstrate how well they’ve brushed their teeth. You proudly show off this report card when it’s time to see the dentist! The health care staff will be happy that your child is doing a fantastic job, and positive reinforcement is extremely effective.
3. When going to the dentist, let your child wear a special shirt or costume.
When going to the dentist, who wouldn’t want to wear a Superman mask or Princess gloves? If they are feeling a little anxious, this can give kids an extra dose of bravery. It can provide a splash of fun as long as the costume is not voluminous and does not make it impossible for the dentist to perform an inspection.
3. Exercise what you preach
We all know that children imitate their parents’ actions, so don’t be the reason your kids are afraid of the dentist! It’s easier said than done, but for the sake of your children, and for the sake of your wellbeing, when you bring them to your dentist, show your children that there’s nothing to be afraid of. Your kids will be too, if you’re nervous when you go to the dentist.
4. Listen to their anxieties
In a judgement-free zone, allow your children the opportunity to share their concerns about going to the dentist. Let them ask questions and respond with integrity. Any of the discomfort that comes from the dentist’s office can be relieved by just talking things out several times.
5. Let them in on the small choices
Good dental health begins at home, and avoiding all the frightening dentist visits. Even if the ones they want cost a little more, let your little ones pick out the toothbrush and toothpaste they want. Trust me, a couple of bucks now will save hundreds of dollars for dental work later.
6. Tell them about the coming visit in advance
Offer your child plenty of notice and inform them during the week about their appointment. Showing up with no warning at the dentist’s office can cause fear and anxiety in your children.
7. Using terms that are optimistic
Words like “teeth cleaning” and “dentist’s office” are harsh and can cause fear, particularly if you speak to the little ones. Try telling your cuties instead that they are going to have a friend’s smile tested. Some of the initial anxiety that comes with going to some kind of check-up will be alleviated by these encouraging terms.
8. End on a good note
Make it a point after leaving the dentist to do something fun. Take them to the park, give them a new toy they want, watch a movie, or let them choose the afternoon activities. Ending the day on a positive note will allow them to look forward to seeing the dentist the next time they visit.
Are You Looking for an Amazing Dentist For Your Kids?
With over 30 years of professional experience helping young patients protect and beautify their smiles, Balfour Dental continues to be the preferred dental office for children and their families in Brentwood California and the surrounding communities of Antioch, Oakley, Discovery Bay and beyond! Dr. Rayani and Dr. Siao both have many different certifications, including Invisalign Certification, Implant Dentistry, Sleep Apnea Treatment, Cerec CAD-CAM Restorations, Neuromuscular Dentistry, and Implants respectively. Our dental office is locally owned and operated by Dr. Dimple Rayani and Dr. Sien Siao, two professionals with vast experience in Implant Retained Denture treatments as well as in general dentistry. If you are looking to help your kid’s smile, contact Balfour Dental today!
