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Pediatric dental care can be scary to children due to unfamiliar surroundings and people in addition to sharp metallic instruments. Since routine dentist visits are part of every comprehensive, lifelong dental care plan, eliminate any fears your children have now. You do not want them skipping the dentist as adults and dealing with complications such as tooth decay, gingivitis, and gum disease.

How to Help Your Children Overcome Pediatric Dental Care Fears

1. Work With Books & Toys

Use dental-themed books and toys to teach your kids about pediatric dental care prior to upcoming dentist visits. Read children’s books about going to the dentist for the first time, losing baby teeth, and other relevant themes. Work with plush toys as well to stress the importance of routine pediatric dental visits, such as stuffed bears brushing their teeth.

2. Use Positive Words Only

Refrain from using negative language when describing dental practices to your children, including “hurt” and “shot.” Use language kids can relate to instead, such as the dentist removing “tiny sugar bugs” to keep teeth and gums healthy. Do not try to soothe your children with “horror stories” from your past dental experiences either, as this will likely frighten the little ones further.

3. Stay Calm

pediatric dentalPrepare for fussy behavior when your children are in the dentist’s chair. Stay calm using soothing tones and remember that your pediatric dental care team understands your kids’ fears and are there to help them feel better. For example, they may suggest you hold the child’s hand throughout the cleaning and checkup. If you make it clear you trust the team, your children will too.

4. Avoid Bribery

Do not bribe your children into going to the dentist because they will think they don’t have to go unless there is a treat or prize involved. Pediatric dentists often have “treasure boxes” filled with inexpensive toys your children can select from after the visit, so let that be a happy surprise and an incentive to go back in six months for another cleaning and checkup.

5. Be a Good Example

Inform your children every time you go to the dentist and emphasize how happy you are to get your teeth thoroughly cleaned and checked for cavities. If you do not go to the dentist regularly, why would your children think they have to?

 

Milford Dental provides residents throughout Ohio with comprehensive dental care in a relaxed environment, including pediatric dental care and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Johnson and his experienced team connect with each patient to provide the personalized service necessary for healthy, beautiful smiles. Call (513) 575-9600 to schedule your child’s next appointment today or visit the website for more information.

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