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When you think about visiting the dentist, how do you feel? For many people, scheduling an exam or dental procedure evokes strong emotions, including anxiety and fear. If the idea of sitting in a dentist’s chair makes you nervous, think about how your kids feel! Luckily, it doesn’t have to be that way. According to Craig A. Spletzer, DDS, a dentist for children in Fairfield, OH, you have a lot more control over your kid’s fears than you think. Sometimes, it just takes a little reframing to turn a potentially negative experience into a positive one.

Here are three ways to help prevent—or overcome—your child’s fear of the dentist:

  • Schedule Exams Early: The earlier you introduce your child to the dentist, the better. Kids should start having dental exams at just a year old, and a dentist for children is usually an expert at making babies and toddlers feel comfortable during those visits. Most pediatric dental offices are designed to help kids feel relaxed, too. 

  • dentist for childrenBe Positive: If a parent is afraid of something, that fear is often passed on to the child. Does the dentist make you nervous? Your kids can sense it, and it may scare them before they’ve even set foot in a dental office. When it comes to scheduling exams and teeth cleanings, be careful what you say in front of your children. Make those early teeth cleanings and exams a positive experience.

  • Prepare & Explain: Talk about visiting a dentist for children before the first appointment, and explain what this type of doctor does. Seeing sharp metal instruments, meeting strange people, and hearing loud noises from dental instruments can be scary! Discuss the process ahead of time so your child knows what to expect.

Craig A. Spletzer, DDS, and his team of dental professionals treat patients of all ages and perform a variety of procedures, including teeth cleanings, root canals, and teeth whitening treatments. To schedule an appointment, call (513) 860-1133, or visit the website for a full list of dental services.

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