5 Tips for Helping Your Child With Their Dental Fear

When it comes to having a fear of the dentist, it is very common; even as adults, some of us still tend to have at least a little anxiety when it comes to going to the dentist. Now, imagine the fear that a child will have when it comes to going to the dentist. This is someone they do not know, using intimidating tools, and saying things that sound scary.

It has been reported that almost 20 percent of school age children have a fear of the dentist. It is hard for parents and dentists alike to convince children that a visit to the dentist is not going to be difficult or scary. So what can you do to help your child with their dental anxiety? 

Give information. Children are young and have not experienced many things in the world like us adults have; they need to be told some things. Giving information about the dentist can help the child gain some confidence and relax a bit if they know a general idea of why they are going to the dentist. Now, you do not have to get specific by saying, “The dentist will scrape the plaque and tartar off your teeth.” Rather, say things like, “The dentist is going to make sure your teeth are healthy and strong.” A positive spin on things. As a dentist, I can explain what the child will experience during the visit.

Relaxation strategies. Using some relaxation strategies will help the child feel much more comfortable while at the dentist. Simple breathing exercises will be great; blowing bubbles is a great way to accomplish this and also gives the child more fun. When the child is in the dental chair, allowing them to close their eyes can help as well as tensing and relaxing muscles in specific order can help release tension.

Give distraction. Along with blowing bubbles, there are some great ways to distract the child so they do not let their anxiety, become the focus. One method is to allow the child to play with a toy in the waiting room as well as have simple dialogue with one of the hygienists.

Give the child reinforcement. Positive reinforcement will be a huge deal. Things like stickers, words of affirmation, things of that nature go a long way. When you confirm that the child is doing a good job with their dental health, they’ll feel better about going.

Get the parents involved. Having a parent involved with the child’s oral health, it will make a world of difference. A parent can help reduce the child’s stress during the dental visit, perhaps by holding their hand, etc.

Bottom line, while it is very common for a child to feel scared about the dentist, there are several ways to help reduce that and get them in a good place with dental hygiene.