Pediatric dentists may offer fun prizes for children after their visit
Dental anxiety is extremely common among children. Roughly 6.3 percent of kids between 5 and 10 years old are afraid of visiting the dentist. Unfortunately, this anxiety can make things exceptionally difficult when the child needs to visit a dentist for treatment. As a parent, there are a few things you can do to curb those dental visit fears in your child to make visits easier for everyone involved.
Begin Dental Care as Early as Possible
When children start dental care at an early age, they are less likely to develop a fear of the dentist. Going to the dentist will simply become an acceptable part of their routine. As far as when you should schedule the first appointment, it is a good idea to have a checkup by around one-year-old or within six months of when their first teeth start peeking through.
Introduce Dentistry at Home to Build Understanding and Comfort
Make a point to introduce your young child to the idea of dentistry at home. Invest in books that talk about going to the dentist. Mention that you go to the dentist and talk about the experience positively. Watch informational videos about what happens at the dentist, and even consider hosting pretend dental visits. Children have anxiety about the unfamiliar, so introducing dentistry at home and what it entails can make a difference.
Make Dentist Visit Days Something to Look Forward To
If your child is really apprehensive about going to the dentist, plan something to look forward to immediately after the appointment. Consider something fun like a visit to the child’s favorite park, a trip to pick out a special toy, or even visiting a special friend. This distraction can be enough to encourage the child to be strong through the appointment.
Always Visit a Pediatric Dentist vs a General Dentist
Working with a pediatric dentist means your child will get care at a place that is specifically equipped for children. These dental practices often have child-friendly waiting areas and an overall environment that is attractive to children. Pediatric dentists may also offer fun prizes for children after their visit, and have a wealth of experience with anxious little ones.
Need help with an over-anxious child? We can help make the experience as smooth as possible. Reach out to one of our team members to discuss your child’s needs and schedule an appointment.
