How to Help Your Child With Their Fear of the Dentist

Taking your child to a dentist appointment can be overwhelming – not only for them but for you as a parent.

Around 16% of school-age children are afraid to go to the dentist, creating anxiety around visits and a negative association with oral hygiene. If your child has a fear of the dentist, there are ways to help them overcome this fear.

Keep reading to learn how you can help your little one take pride in their oral care and get excited for the dentist!

Start Them Early

Starting early is a great way to get your child comfortable with visits.

The first visit to a pediatric dentist is generally around their first birthday. Starting young will help your child get accustomed to the office, the staff, and the procedures of the appointment.

It is also a great way to ensure your child has a solid foundation for good dental care.

Incorporate Dental Care at Home

Talking to your child about oral hygiene is a good way to help them get comfortable with the dentist.

Explain how they can ensure they have a healthy smile by taking care of their teeth and gums. Let them know that part of keeping teeth strong and healthy means that the dentist must regularly check inside the mouth to see that they are caring for their smile.

While helping your child brush, you can encourage them to take pride in their oral care and get them excited to show the dentist their hard work.

Play Pretend Dentist

As a parent, your child trusts you to take care of them. Dressing up as a dentist and playing the role will help your child overcome a fear of the dentist.

This creates an association with the dentist as someone that they trust. You can make this fun by engaging your child in dentist play. They can also take a turn being your dentist while you ask them questions about dental hygiene.

Choose the Best Pediatric Dentist

A pediatric dentist can make a world of difference if your child has a fear of the dentist. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating children, and often, their offices are more fun for children.

After dental school, a dentist for kids will also go through training on child psychology and development, allowing them to communicate and treat children more effectively.

You might be thinking, how do I find a pediatric dentist near me? Firstly, be sure to know what to look for.

A great pediatric dentist will use lots of positive reinforcement and encouragement for your child. They will often have toys, games, and fun decorations in the waiting room and a toothbrush at the end for a job well done.

Help Your Child Overcome a Fear of The Dentist

Taking your child to the dentist is important for their oral health and attitude surrounding oral hygiene. While some children might have a fear of the dentist and anxiety surrounding visits, there are effective ways to help them overcome their fear. Be sure to start them off young, incorporate play, stress oral hygiene at home, and choose a great pediatric dentist.

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