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As a parent, educating your child on the importance of oral care is essential so they establish healthy habits that last a lifetime. This starts with routine visits to a family dentistry clinic. If you’re preparing your little one for professional teeth cleaning or general service with the dentist, here are a few recommendations to ensure the visit is stress-free and easy. 

4 Ways to Ease a Child’s Anxiety About Going to the Dentist

1. Plan a Meet & Greet

For many children, the unknown can be the root cause of stress and anxiety. For comfort and to establish familiarity, consider planning a meet and greet with the dentist before the first appointment. Through introductions, a tour of the office, and even sitting in the dental chair, your little one will be properly prepared for their session. 

2. Walk Through the Treatment at Home

DentistAsk your dentist for a breakdown on how the appointment will go, whether it’s a cleaning or a cavity filling, so you can properly walk your child through the examination at home. By discussing each stage of the appointment candidly and doing a run through using toys and imagination, they’ll be relaxed in the dental chair and less nervous when it comes to seeing dental instruments. 

3. Speak Positively About the Dentist

When discussing the appointment and dentistry as a whole, always use positive terms. Make sure your child sees the dentist and support staff as friends and allies that want to help maintain a beautiful smile. Your child may look forward to seeing the dentist and getting praise for their oral care regimen. 

4. Arrange a Post-Appointment Treat

To eliminate day-of anxiety, make their visit to the dentist something to look forward to by pairing the appointment with another adventure. After their teeth cleaning, take your child to the toy store, a park, a fun restaurant, or even a book store so they enjoy a treat and have positive memories from the day. 

 

If you’re a parent in Hartford County, CT, and you’re looking for a friendly, inviting family dentist that prioritizes both bedside manner and state-of-the-art facilities, Gladstein Dental Center is your one-stop shop for comprehensive dental care. Located in the heart of New Britain and led by Dr. Eric Gladstein, this family dentistry clinic has over 28 years of experience and a reputation for putting even the most anxious patients at ease. To schedule a cleaning for your little one, call today at (860) 223-1162. For more information on their broad range of services, from preventative care to treating gum disease and TMJ, visit their website

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