How to Calm Dental Fear in Children

Both adults and children can develop anxiety about going to the dentist. To prevent and alleviate these fears, it is important to teach correct dental hygiene to your child from a young age. Encouraging daily brushing and flossing will most likely mean only cleanings and checkups without major surgery at dental appointments. Set an example for your child and let her brush and floss with you. Allow her to go with you for your dental appointments. If you have a fear of the dentist, avoid letting these emotions show.

Instructions

1. 1

   Sit with your child and discuss why he is scared of the dentist. Ask him what he is most uncomfortable with and try to explain the process as best you can. Remain understanding and patient. Your child might be afraid of something that might seem trivial to you, but show sympathy when discussing his fears.

2. 2

   Practice a trip to the dentist. Designate an area in your home and set it up with your child’s role-playing toys. Use a play dentist kit and a favourite stuffed animal or doll. Explain the process as you re-enact the dentist’s role. Once your child feels comfortable, allow him to take a turn and practice on a pretend patient.

1. 3

   Purchase books or games about children visiting the dentist. Read stories about visiting the dentist and what dentist do for their patients. Select stories that address common fears.

2. 4

   Schedule a visit to the dentist without a cleaning. Allow your child to look around the office and meet the receptionists and the dentist. If your child seems bothered or upset by the people there, consider switching dentists.

3. 5

   Allow your child to accompany you to your appointment. If you have dentist fears, do not let your child pick up on them. Suppress any anxiety to avoid scaring your child. Let your child see the process firsthand so she can become more familiar and comfortable with the procedure. Schedule your appointment immediately before his so he can jump into the chair himself with the process still fresh in his mind.

4. 6

   Schedule an appointment in the morning. Your child is more likely to be cooperative after a good night’s sleep. Take your child to a paediatric dentist, since these dentists typically have more training when treating young children. Paediatric dentists’ offices also have child-friendly decorations, brightly coloured walls and fun decor for your child to look at.

5. 7

   Bring a favourite toy or stuffed animal. A security item will help your child to feel safe and comforted if she becomes scared. Allow your child to sit in your lap for the first time. This will also help your child to feel calm and safe during the appointment.

6. 8

   Schedule routine checkups. Get your child used to going to the dentist frequently so that he knows it is a routine.

Read Full Post »