How To Ease Your Child’s Fear Of The Dentist
It’s not uncommon for your child to be afraid of the dentist. Many adults may share the same feelings, but for children, you can imagine how they find it hard to hide their fears. Children may have panic or anxiety attacks before their dental visits, which can lead to a phobia if these symptoms are not managed. Many children are fearful of the dentist as they hear myths that it is associated with pain or are afraid of the unknown. It’s important for your child to find a trusted pediatric dentist where they can learn that it is a safe space and is important for them to grow and stay healthy! Discover below some common fears children have regarding their dental appointments and how you can ease their fear of the dentist.
What Triggers Dental Anxiety in Kids?
Dental anxiety in kids can be triggered in many different ways. As a parent, making your child as comfortable as possible is always your goal. If you can discover the triggers, you can prevent or ease their symptoms when their nerves come up on the day of their appointment. Below are just some of the common triggers that your child fears so you, as a parent, can learn to help:
- A negative dental experience in the past
- Feeling embarrassed
- Fear of needles, injections, pain
- Fear of the unknown
- Fear of losing control
- Fear of opening up
- Fear of panicking
3 Ways To Ease Your Child’s Fear Of The Dentist
Start Appointments Early
Delaying dental care for your child can have a negative impact on the appearance of the dentist. When you start your child early on, it gives them plenty of time to get used to the atmosphere and how the tools feel in their mouth at the appointment. This will allow them to open up more each time they visit the dentist and guarantee their oral health is on the right track. If you delay their first visit, it could lead to dental issues requiring more thorough dental exams and treatments. Starting them early allows them to know what to expect and become more comfortable with going.
Role-Play With Your Child
Role-playing the dentist with your child will allow them to see how their appointment will go. Many children fear the unknown and want to feel included in what will happen. If you practice role-playing the dentist visit on one of their stuffed animals or with them specifically, they can feel more confident going into the appointment as they have a better idea of what to expect. Show them how to brush their teeth by demonstrating on yourself and having them follow along, or pretend to brush on their animal if they are more anxious to try it right away.
Be Patient and Positive
Regardless of your child’s age and what may be triggering their fear, it’s important as a parent that you stay as patient and positive as possible. They will soon learn to overcome their fear, but while they are suffering, try to be positive and show them how the dentist can be a welcoming space. Discussing any previous negative experiences they may have had in the past will help clear the air for an upcoming appointment. Rewarding them after their appointment can also help to give them something to look forward to when it is over.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Appointment At Jo-Anne Johnson DMD Family Dentistry
For a pediatric dentist who is calm, caring, and compassionate with your child, Jo-Anne Johnson, DMD Family Dentistry, is the right dentist for you. She ensures your child is safe and comfortable throughout the entire appointment and stops to give them breaks when needed. Our pediatric and family dental team helps the Bedford, NH community overcome their fear of the dentist, whether a child or an adult. Learn more about our dental services, and schedule your appointment with us today!
