Any new and unfamiliar experience can understandably cause nervousness in children, and visiting the pediatric dentist’s office is no exception. Yet, some children experience more anxiety over dental appointments than others. In these cases, there are a few ways parents can alleviate any woes in their little ones. Explore some practical tips to help your child overcome their dental anxiety below.

5 Ways to Reduce Children’s Dental Anxiety

1. Explain Exactly What to Expect

In some children, a lack of knowledge is the strongest driver behind their worries. Thus, giving your child an idea of exactly what will happen at their appointment may help to reduce their anxiety. Describe the process of receiving x-rays, getting a cleaning, and undergoing an exam in child-friendly terms. Speak about these activities in a positive way and remind them that you go for the same type of appointments.

2. Review Relaxation Techniques

One way to keep your child calm during the appointment is to encourage them to use relaxation techniques. Deep breathing and visualization exercises can help to remove your child’s focus from the dental activities. You can also teach them how to use progressive muscle relaxation, in which they focus on relaxing one muscle group at a time.

3. Speak With the Dentist’s Office

If you’re worried your child may have a tantrum or otherwise respond poorly at their appointment, give the staff a heads up in advance. In particular, it’s a good idea to work with a pediatric dentist’s office, as these professionals have seen dental anxiety in children before and know how to respond accordingly. From using a soothing voice to explain procedures to having an environment suited to children, this type of office may help to calm your child’s nerves.

4. Stay Calm Before & During the Appointment

Children are very perceptive, and they often have a keen ability to pick up on their parents’ moods. If you’re nervous before or during your child’s appointment, chances are they’ll notice. This will only add to their sense of unease, so be sure to do whatever you can to keep yourself calm, too.

5. Bring a Distraction

There’s no harm in bringing a favorite stuffed animal to your child’s appointment. Most staff members at pediatric dentists’ offices know just how much comfort a beloved toy can provide. In addition to a comfort object for the appointment itself, consider bringing crayons or a card game to distract your child ahead of time in case you encounter a brief wait.  

If you’re seeking a comforting and welcoming environment where your little one can enjoy a stress-free dental appointment, turn to the office of Brandi Prather, DMD, PSC. As a trusted pediatric dentist in Pulaski County, KY, Dr. Brandi has been putting little ones at ease while providing superior dental care for more than a decade. For more updates from the practice, like their Facebook page or call (606) 679-5437 to schedule an appointment.