How to Ease Your Childs Dental Fear

Dental check-ups are an important part of developing good oral hygiene habits but sometimes fear of the dentist can be an obstacle preventing this from happening.  From the first dental visit as a child into adulthood, dental fear can increase the risk of deterioration of a person’s oral health. Is your child expressing fears of visiting the dental office?

Ease dental fear with your child by

• being a role model.  Children feel your emotions and pick up on your fears and anxiety when you talk about your dislike and apprehension when it comes to visiting the dental office. Having your children come watch you at one of your dental appointments is a great way to show them how easy and fun it can be.
• starting their dental care early. Help by easing their way into the dental office to help them feel more relaxed with the environment.
• making it fun – role-play at home!  Make it a fun game so it will be something that they look forward too when it’s their turn for their dental visit.
• using positive reinforcement. Talk to your children about visiting the dentist and how it will help make their teeth strong and healthy and answer any questions they have.
• avoiding scary trigger words such as – drill, pain, blood, hurt, needle. Be positive and avoid any negative talk.  Be open to allowing dental professionals to guide your child through their appointment.

For more tips on how to help ease your child’s fear talk to your dental professionals.