5 Ways to Ease Your Child’s Anxiety about Going to the Dentist
Your family dentist is trained to effectively deal with children who are anxious when they arrive for their dental appointment. However, if your child is worried about going to the dentist, there are some things you can do at home to ensure your little one arrives at the dental clinic calm and relaxed.
Relaxed Parents, Relaxed Child
There’s a good chance your child’s dental phobia was passed on from you. If you’re anxious about seeing the dentist, then your child will be too, and no amount of coaxing will work. After all, you’re the parent, and there must be a good reason you’re anxious. Try to stay relaxed and let your child know well in advance that they have a dental appointment so they can get used to the idea. Talk to them about the importance of good dental care and visiting the dentist, and make it a special occasion.
Let Them Ask Questions
Quite often, fear happens because of the unknown. Ask your child why they feel fearful and answer all their questions, but not in too much detail – just enough to make them feel better.Let them know the dentist will answer all their questions too. They might feel better if it comes from a professional. If your child is still nervous when they arrive at the dental clinic, let the receptionist know so the dentist can be prepared.
Role Playing Games
Your child should already be familiar with the process of teeth brushing and dental care, so play games where you and the child take it in turns to be a dentist. You could pretend to examine your child’s teeth, and then your child can be the dentist. This makes them see that your dentist is just a person doing a job and there’s nothing to fear.
Books and Stories
Read books together about going to the dentist and how important it is to look after your teeth. Tell your child positive stories about your trips to the dentist and what fun you had.
On the Day of the Appointment
Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and get to your appointment. Depending your child’s age, factor in any delaying tactics and turn the whole day into a special outing with something fun and exciting after the appointment. Let your child take their favourite toy or teddy so they can get their teeth checked together. Always stay with your child during the appointment to make them feel safe and secure.
Family Dentist West Auckland Parents Can Put Their Trust In
At Titirangi Dental, we’ll make you and your child feel safe and comfortable in our clinic. Our team is professionally trained to make your child’s visit a fun and relaxing experience and the start of a lifelong dental care habit.
Call 09 817 6057 or contact us online to make an appointment or to ask any questions about our family dental services.
