Tips for Helping Kids Overcome Fear of the Dentist
Introduction
Due to their excess sugary diet, kids are highly susceptible to dental issues like cavities and misaligned permanent teeth. However, kids fear visiting the dentist due to the unfamiliar environment, strange sounds, and possible pain and discomfort. Parents are often stressed out due to their kid’s fear of visiting the dentist, and in such a case, taking them for oral checkups can be quite a task. This fear of the dentist needs to be addressed so they are more cooperative in dental visits, which could help maintain their long-term oral health.
This blog provides some tips for parents on how to help their kids overcome their fear of the dentist and get to oral checkups without hassle.
Start Dental Visits Early
Dental visits for kids should be started at a young age, where their complete oral health is checked. These checkups should be started after their first birthday or when their milk teeth appear. This can be done simply to check their oral health. At such an age, kids are more likely to accept dental visits as less overwhelming, which can lead to normalizing such checkups. Children consider anything that starts at a young age normal, and the fear is reduced.
Choose a Child-Friendly Dentist
Choosing a child-friendly dentist with a history of working with children can be quite helpful in making your children prefer the dentist because of the dentist's behavior. Pedodontists, specialists in children's dentistry, are more trained to be playful with children during checkups. This creates a welcoming environment for the children and performs procedures in a non-threatening way, reducing fear and anxiety in children.
Use Positive Language
While describing dental visits to kids, avoid using negative phrases like 'I would take you to the dentist if you do not obey' or 'When the dentist would inject you, then you will understand.' These phrases cause panic and anxiety in children and make them scared of dental visits, causing problems when you need to take them to the clinic. Instead, use positive and encouraging phrases, and try role-playing dental visits at home in an interesting and non-scary way to familiarize them with routine checkups.
Read Books and Watch Videos About the Dentist
There are many children's books that explain dental visits in a fun way and demystify the myths associated with them. Books with fun cartoons and characters smiling positively when dental visits are mentioned encourage kids to do the same. This can normalize the mention of dentists and routine checkups.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
Teach your children simple relaxation techniques to manage anxiety, such as deep breathing, visualization, and other calming techniques. These techniques can then be used during dental visits when kids are scared. Visualization can be done by closing the eyes and deep breathing while imagining a peaceful environment. This helps in relaxing during tense situations.
Bring a Comfort Item
Children often have comfort items like toys or clothes. These items provide the kids with comfort and security, and they feel at ease. During dental visits, carry your kid's comfort item with you and give it to them to help them keep calm during the checkup. It makes dental visits for children more comfortable.
Be a Role Model
Children mimic their parents' behavior in almost all situations. So, if you are taking your kids along on dental visits, behave as you want them to. Encourage them to behave positively with your positive behavior, as they will mimic actions faster than they will obey your words. Also, follow good oral hygiene practices so they see and learn from you.
Offer Rewards and Praise
When your kid behaves well during a dental appointment, reward them with small toys, treats, or stickers to encourage them regarding the same. It would teach them the value of cooperating and listening to you during treatments. Apart from rewards, praise them for being brave at the dentist's clinic, making them feel confident and more willing to go for the next oral checkup.
Explain What to Expect
Children need to be made aware of what happens in a dental visit. The parents set their expectations for oral checkups. Tell your kid what happens at a dental visit, how to react to the procedures, and what the need is. Preparing your children in advance and any surprise reaction from them at the dentist is important, usually as a tantrum. Also, encourage them to ask any questions they have in mind and answer them positively.
Stay Calm and Patient
Your child may feel anxious during the dental checkup. In such a situation, you must stay calm instead of getting frustrated or angry at your child for fear. If your child throws a tantrum, offer reassurance and support to proceed with the procedure while letting them know it is normal to be afraid, but they can make it through.
Conclusion
Dental checkups are essential for kids to avoid certain dental problems and promote oral health. However, their fear of dentists keeps them from visiting clinics for routine checkups. This fear can be overcome by practicing simple techniques, like scheduling dental visits at a young age, using positive language, and being a role model for them. These techniques help create a positive dental experience for your child, plus healthy teeth and gums. At Little Krishna, we simplify Pediatric Dentist in Mumbai for your kid’s best oral health.