It’s hard to see your child stressed or upset, especially when they’re worried about something as simple as a dental checkup. Dental anxiety is common in children and can even disrupt their oral health if they refuse to attend pediatric dentist visits as often as they should. Here are a few tips for alleviating your child’s dental anxiety. 

3 Ways to Help Kids With Dental Anxiety

1. Talk With Your Child

When you know your child has an appointment coming up, sit down with them to discuss the visit. Explain what will happen the day of the appointment and why they need to visit the pediatric dentist. For instance, if your little one will be getting a dental cleaning, explain that they will get to wear a bib, sit in a special dental chair, and have someone brush and floss their teeth for them. 

Only use uplifting language with your child. Avoid a negative tone and words that could scare your child, such as “drill” or “shot.” When you speak with your child, never say that they “have to go” to the pediatric dentist. Instead, say that they “get to go” to the dentist. Reassure them that you will be there every step of the way. 

2. Address Triggers 

When you speak with your child, ask them what scares them about the dentist so you can understand their anxiety triggers. Try to find solutions for these triggers to keep them comfortable during their appointment.

For instance, if they’re scared of the sounds at the dental office, bring along a set of earphones and a tablet so they can play games while they wait and listen to music during the appointment. 

3. Visit the Dental Office Beforehand

Since dental visits are often scary because they’re unfamiliar to young children, help them see appointments in a positive light by taking a tour of the office beforehand. Ask the dentist if they offer tours for young kids, in which little ones can sit on the moving dental chair, meet hygienists, and see models of teeth.

When you visit the office, point out all of the positives about the experience, such as the shiny smiles people walk out with and the fascinating science behind dental X-rays and treatment. 

If your child struggles with dental visits, turn to Discovery Dental in Eagle River, AK. For over seven years, this trusted team of pediatric dentists has provided a comfortable place for kids to receive excellent dental care, from routine cleanings to complex restorations. Learn more about their caring approach to dentistry by visiting their website, or give their office a call at (907) 622-5437 to make an appointment.