4 Tips for Helping Your Child Conquer Fear of the Dentist

Posted on July 8, 2013

Regular trips to the dentist should be a part of any healthy child’s oral hygiene routine. Children should begin seeing a dentist regularly 6 months after the appearance of their first tooth – and if your child is afraid, or simply detests going to the dentist, it can cause anxiety for both the child and their parents. Follow these 5 simple tips in order to make the experience easier on you both.

1.) Schedule Early and Regularly

As a rule of thumb, children (and adults) should see their dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and to screen for any signs of tooth decay. After your child’s first tooth presents – maintain a schedule of regular appointments in 6 month intervals. This creates structure and ensures that the child will not be surprised by a visit to the dentist, allowing the child to become comfortable with both the dentist and the practice.

2.) Don’t Over Explain & Use Caution with Your Words

When talking to your child about their first visit to a dentist, avoid providing unneeded information about potential procedures, fillings, cavities, etc. This will only cause your child to worry, let the dentist & their staff use their own verbiage when explaining any procedures or cleaning techniques. Also – avoid words with negative connotations such as “Hurts”, “Pain”, ”Scraping”, ”Ouch”, etc. Experts in the field advise the use of positive words such as “Clean”, “Healthy”, & “Strong Teeth”.

3.) Be Prepared for Your Child to Be a Bit Uncomfortable

At a young age it is normal for children to be fussy in unfamiliar situation, especially one involving a stranger prodding around in their mouth. Be assured that the dentist and their staff are accustomed to dealing with children, and are prepared to handle the occasional tantrum. Let the dentists and their staff advise you on the best course of action while in the exam room – whether it be to step back and give your child some space, or to comfort them when they are upset.

4.) Consider seeing Board Certified Pediatric Dentist

If you are especially worried about your child’s comfort while at the dentist, consider seeing a board certified pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists acquire special training in order to treat children from their first tooth and throughout adolescence, specifically. Leading pediatric dentists, like Dr. Ammar Idlibi of Kids Dental Care in Bristol & Windsor, CT, are members of The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) and Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry – be sure to look for this accreditation when choosing a dentist for your child.