If your child is apprehensive about going to the dentist, don't panic. Many children experience some apprehension when it comes to dental visits, especially when they don't know what will happen during their visit. You can help your child get over their apprehension by using the simple tips described below.
Let Them Go with You
Children learn by watching. To help your child get ready for the dentist, let them go with you. Take your child to one of your regularly scheduled appointments and let them watch you have your teeth cleaned. They'll be able to see what goes on, and the dentist will be able to explain the procedure to them. Once they see that your dental visits are relaxed and pain-free, they'll be more comfortable when it's their turn to go.
Talk to Them
If your child is old enough to explain their feelings to you, let them. Sit down and talk to your child about their apprehension. Even if your child is young, they can still tell you in simple words why they don't want to see the dentist. Once you understand your child's concerns, you'll be able to help them work through these issues.
Take a Trip to the Library
If you're trying to help your child overcome their apprehension about the dentist, it might be time to take a trip to the library. There are numerous books available that will teach your child about different dental procedures. You can even find books that will help your child understand how teeth develop – and how they eventually fall out to allow room for permanent teeth.
If your child prefers computer applications and technology, there are numerous apps that you can download on your phone or computer. These programs will allow your child to interact as they learn about the various dental procedures they might experience at their next dental visit.
Get Them Involved
Children like to be involved in decision-making, especially when those decisions involve them. One way to help your child overcome their apprehension about the dentist is to allow them to make some of the decisions. That doesn't mean you need to let them decide whether they receive treatment or not. However, you can let them decide things such as the flavor of mouth rinse they'll use, or the type of toothbrush they choose. It's also a good idea to let them help you choose their dentist. If your child is comfortable with their dentist, they're more likely to enjoy their dental visits.
If your child is avoiding the dentist, use the tips provided here to help them feel more comfortable about their dental care. If your child's apprehension interferes with their dental care, talk to your dentist about treatment options, such as sedation dentistry. contact a clinic like All About Smiles to learn more.
Share14 February 2017
When the bottled water craze began, I jumped on the bandwagon with everyone else who was drinking water from bottles instead of from the tap. I wasn't sure why bottled water was healthier, but I liked the taste. When I went for my next dental check-up, I had my first cavity in a while, so I had it filled and didn't think much of it. Well, I had two more during my next check-up after that, and I began trying to think of why my teeth were suddenly going bad. The only change in my habits was the switch to bottled water, so I made the switch back to tap water and my teeth began to improve. I created this blog to encourage others who have begun getting cavities suddenly to look into their changes in habits. They may find they made a change similar to mine.