As a parent, you want to instill healthy habits in your child while they're young. When it comes to their oral health, this means teaching them proper brushing and flossing technique, as well as the importance of regular visits to the dentist. However, many children may find a dental clinic strange or scary, and they may resist going for annual cleanings. To help your child overcome their fear of the dentist, follow these tips. 

4 Steps to Make Kids Feel at Ease at the Dentist

1. Use Positive Language

When talking about the dentist, chose your words carefully. Steer clear of terms like "pain" or "shot" that might scare them away, and emphasize words like "healthy" and "clean." For younger kids, you might also want to adopt age-appropriate vocabulary to help them understand what happens during a cleaning. For example, instead of telling your child the dentist will get rid of bacteria that can cause cavities, tell them the dentist will get rid of "sugar bugs" instead.

2. Show Them What to Expect

Anxiety often stems from a fear of the unknown. Get your children acquainted with the dentist by reading books and watching videos, such as Peppa Pig Visits the Dentist. You can also use your child's imagination to your benefit by "playing dentist" at home. Turning a visit to the dentist into a game will make the experience seem more fun, and it'll also teach your child what to expect during their real appointment. Use a stuffed animal as the patient, or take turns with your child being the patient and the dentist.

3. Keep Your Cool

It can be nerve-wracking for parents to see their children experience something new and uncomfortable. If the parent also has personal anxiety about the dentist, this can be especially pronounced. Set a good example, and don't let your anxiety trickle down. Put on a smile and stay calm, even if your child gets fussy.

4. Reward Their Success

You don't want to bribe kids to get them into a dental appointment, but you can provide positive reinforcement after the visit. Doing something fun after every trip to the dentist will create happy associations with the experience. Avoid sweet treats, and opt for a trip to the playground or toy store instead.

When choosing a dentist for your child’s first visit, trust David Novak, DDS of High Point, NC. This family dentistry professional has the skills, experience, and technology to work with patients of all ages. Dr. Novak and his team offer a relaxing atmosphere where your child will feel at ease. Their comprehensive services include everything from teeth cleaning to dental implants. Request an appointment online or call (336) 347-1505.