Dental anxiety can affect anyone, and it is particularly noticeable in children who are unsure how the visit to a family dentist will go. However, you can make it easier for your young one by helping them understand the necessity of the appointments and making it a positive experience. Below are several strategies to help you alleviate their dental anxiety.

How to Reduce Anxiety When Visiting the Family Dentist

1. Choose the Right Dentist

Before making an appointment with a family dentist, visit their office. Talk to the staff about their experiences with children, and look at the decor in the reception area. If the office has colorful wall murals or posters of popular cartoon characters, they likely cater to the health needs of children. You can also check online reviews to see what other parents have said about their kids’ experiences.

2. Don’t Deceive Them

If you hide the appointment from your child, they will naturally assume that there’s something to fear. Instead, be open and upfront about the visit. You can tell them about the checkup without giving frightening details.

For example, explain that the dentist will be checking their smile and cleaning their teeth. If your kid has questions and you’re unsure about answering them, suggest that they ask the dentist during the visit.

3. Follow the Staff’s Cue 

Sometimes, a temper tantrum is unavoidable, so you should prepare for it. Instead of immediately responding to your child, let the dental staff try to handle the situation at first. They should have experience working with children and can usually calm an upset young patient. However, if the tantrum is too much, step in to soothe and reassure your child.

If the dentist or hygienist asks you to step back, follow their instructions. Bribing your child with a treat can backfire, so most family dentists will advise against it. Instead, they will help the child see that they don’t have to be nervous, providing comfort and care.

4. Schedule the Appointment Early

You can help prevent dental anxiety by practicing healthy oral care as early as possible. For example, children can begin seeing a family dentist from preschool all the way to adults, and this is the ideal time for their first checkup. This also allows you to begin instilling proper brushing and flossing habits.

When you combine this with regular checkups, your child will understand that they have nothing to fear from the dentist. It will become a normal part of their health care, and they may even look forward to it.

When you need a reliable and friendly family dentist, contact Clements Family Dentistry in Hamilton, OH. They have been treating adults and children since 1991, offering a wide range of services that include oral surgery and cosmetic dentistry. They know how to treat patients of all ages, even those who experience dental anxiety. For more information about their services, visit the website. To schedule an office visit, call (513) 887-7027.