Visiting the dentist can be an intimidating experience for a child, especially if don’t know what to expect. Since dental exams are key to monitoring oral health and tooth development, you’ll have to help them overcome their fear. Below are some strategies to help ease dental exam anxiety in children. 

3 Ways to Help Your Child With Dental Fears

1. Create Positive Associations

Your child needs to understand that the dentist plays an integral role in their health. Begin by explaining why everyone needs strong, healthy teeth, and be careful not to use words like “shot,” “pain,” or “cavity.” Instead, speak generally about keeping their smile white and use simple, age-appropriate explanations. Once your child sees the dentist as a health care provider, they’ll create positive associations that will reduce their fears.

2. Schedule an Introduction

If it’s your child’s first teeth cleaning, speak with the office staff about a preliminary visit. This allows your child to get familiar with the office, meet the staff and the dentist, and ask any questions they might have. When they return, they’ll know what to expect and will feel less intimidated by the environment. This is also an excellent time for you to express any fears they have to the staff so they can make accommodations.

3. Provide Distractions

When the big day comes, provide plenty of distractions for your child. Playing video games, watching movies on a phone or tablet, or listening to music are all effective ways to distract your child from their phobia. Just clear these devices with the staff ahead of time to make sure they won’t interfere with treatment.

If you or your child is overdue for a teeth cleaning, schedule an appointment at Bream Family Dental Care. These dentists have served Waynesboro, VA, for over 25 years and offer comprehensive general and cosmetic dentistry services. They take every measure to ensure patient comfort and will create a custom treatment plan to assist with this goal. Call (540) 949-7246 to speak with an associate and visit their website to learn more about the practice.