Dental phobias are extremely common, especially among children. Offices can be cold and intimidating, and fears can lead them to avoid dental care for the rest of their lives. Seeing the dentist is integral to your child’s oral health, which is why it’s essential to help them overcome their phobia. The staff at Revercomb Dental Group in Manlius, NY, understand that it’s not easy and want to share a few dentist-approved tips to help your child relax before an upcoming visit.

3 Ways to Calm a Child About a Dentist Visit

1. Role-Play

Children respond well to games, and creating a real-world scenario of a dentist visit is an excellent way to build positive associations. Leading up to their visit, role-play different scenarios where they’re the dentist or patient. They’ll see that teeth cleanings don’t have to be scary and aren’t painful; therefore, when the day comes, they’ll be open to dental care.

2. Choose Words Carefully

“Drill,” “cavity,” “shot,” and “hurt” are enough to make adults cringe about dental visits, so avoid trouble words when speaking with your child. They’ll only build on existing fears and put them in a bad state of mind before the appointment. Use positive words about the dentist so that they view them as a helpful resource that is essential to their health.

3. Lead by Example

Your child looks up to you, so provide a positive example. Let them know that you aren’t afraid of the dentist. They’ll adopt your courage — especially if you take them to a visit you’re having — and follow your lead. When the time comes, they’ll be brave, having seen how you handle the situation; this will help them overcome their fear.

The dental care staff at Revercomb Dental Group take every measure to create a welcoming environment. With 44 years of experience, they have the knowledge needed to ensure patients are comfortable. Whether it’s a basic teeth cleaning or root canal, they’ll ensure you’re relaxed during the procedure, and they’re proud to offer same-day dentistry to their patients. If you’re ready to schedule an appointment, call (315) 682-8400. You can visit their website for more information about their services and patient resources, and connect with them on Facebook for dental care advice.