Going to the dentist should not be scary, but even many adults would rather forego dental care than get a teeth cleaning. However, dental exams are vital to a lifetime of oral health, and a pediatric dentist knows how to make an appointment a positive experience for your child. Pedodontic Associates offers exceptional pediatric dental care in a warm, welcoming environment that will put your child at ease. They offer tips to try at home to help your child overcome their uneasiness.

Children’s Dentists Share 3 Tips to Ease Kids’ Fears About a Dental Exam

1. Start Young

The earlier you schedule your little one’s first visit to a children's dentist, the better. You want to establish a “dental home” for your child. This will provide not only consistency in your child’s dental care but a familiar environment and opportunity to build trust with their dentist. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends taking your child to the dentist for the first time by age 1.

2. Avoid Using Scary Words

When talking about the dentist or telling your child they have an appointment, use positive words. “Needle,” “shot,” “pull,” “drill,” and “hurt” are words that make even adults leery of a dental exam. Tell your child the dentist will look at their healthy smile and count their teeth, then let the children’s dentist introduce their own vocabulary. If you’re not sure what to say or how to prepare your child for an appointment, ask your pediatric dentist for advice.

3. Don’t Share Your Dental Experience

Try not to bring your child with you to your dental appointments. You might act nervous without realizing it and your child could pick up on your behavior. Most adult offices are sterile, while children’s dentists offer a fun, colorful, and kid-friendly environment. You want your child to associate the dentist with a positive and enjoyable experience, not a boring or nerve-wracking one.

As the best children’s dentists on Oahu and Maui, Pedodontic Associates is an excellent dental home for your child. To schedule an appointment at one of their three offices, call (808) 735-1733 for Honolulu, (808) 487-7933 for Aiea, and (808) 877-0066 for Kahului. Visit their website for information about what to expect during your child’s first visit with Hawaii’s best pediatric dentists.