How To Manage Dental Anxiety in Kids? Helpful Tips

Dental anxiety is the fear of going to the dentist. Dental anxiety can stem from a fear of pain, embarrassment about the condition of one's teeth, or fear of the unknown. The level of fear can vary from person to person.

Start dental visits while they're young

It's recommended that children see a dentist for the first time around one year of age. This visit is more for the comfort of the child than cleaning their teeth. As the baby becomes used to the environment, they'll start to look forward to future appointments.

However, if your child is older and has never been to the dentist before, you may want to consider taking your child to a pediatric dentist instead of a general one for their first few appointments. Pediatric dentists are more experienced in working with young children, making them more comfortable at the dentist's office.

Many parents make the mistake of waiting to take their child to the dentist until they have teeth that are decayed or damaged in some way. While getting regular preventative dental care is important, it's even more important that your child starts the process at a very young age. That way, you can keep up with their dental health as they grow into an adult.

Take something comforting to the dentist appointment

The sight of a dentist's chair can be unsettling for some children. Bringing along a favorite toy, stuffed animal, or other comfort objects can help make the visit more enjoyable. Talk about the choice of the item ahead of time, so the child knows what to bring and why it is important. If the child is old enough to understand, it can be helpful to let him or her know what will happen during the visit and prepare them for it. For example, explain that the dentist will count their teeth and clean them with a soft toothbrush and paste. For infants, bringing along a pacifier is a good idea. It can help them feel more comfortable in the chair and make it easier for the pediatric dentist to work his or her way around their mouth.

Read stories or play games involving dentist visits

Reading books to children is a great way to introduce them to the idea of visiting a dental office for checkups and cleanings. There are hundreds of great children's books about going to the dentist, and many of them involve positive experiences so your little one can get used to the idea of going here without worry.

There are dozens of children's books that emphasize the importance of oral health and visiting the dentist for routine cleanings and exams. Some of these books are fun and silly, while others are more serious, but they all focus on making a trip to the dentist's office a positive experience. This can help children grow up with a positive outlook on these appointments.

Teach kids the importance of great oral health

One of the best ways to combat dental anxiety in kids and prevent them from developing a fear of the dentist is to lead by example. Show them that visiting the dentist is a non-threatening experience for you, and encourage them to mimic your behavior. Don't make trips to the dentist seem scary—tell your kids about the things you enjoy about going to the dentist so they can learn to associate these positive feelings with the dentist's office as well.

For any queries, call Colorado Wellness Dentistry at (303) 798-1068 or visit us at 9085 E Mineral Cir #220, Centennial, CO 80112.