5 TIPS FOR WHEN YOUR CHILD IS FEARFUL OF THE DENTIST

A child’s visit to the dentist can be intimidating and scary. It is recommended that regular dental visits begin at Age 1. However, many parents wait until at least Age 3 when all of the teeth are through the gum line. It is at this age when the child realizes anxiety and fear, especially if the child remembers past conversations of the parents’ dental experiences.

Dr. Nguyen and the dental professionals at Town Square Dental, located near you in Pasadena, Texas, offer the following 5 tips to lessen your child’s fears. The office environment is designed for children and the staff is trained for, and sensitive to, these fears in children.

Generally, a child’s visit to the dentist is uneventful as the procedures are limited to cleanings, fillings and fluoride treatments. By instilling good oral health habits early will avoid the fearful visits of the future.

The alleviation of a child’s fear begins at home.

1. Talk About It – Talk to the child about their upcoming experience without sounding anxious. Children play off the anxieties of the parents. Conversations that are open and positive will have the child look forward to a new experience without any unanswered questions.
2. Use Kid-Friendly Language – When having this conversation, avoid using words like “needle” or “drill.” The professionals at a pediatric dental office use other words for these instruments.
3. Welcome and Encourage Questions – All children above Age 3 are inquisitive, and this should be encouraged. Show the Town Square Dental website to the child where photos of other children will be seen. Knowledge reduces fear.
4. Books on Dental Visits – There are many children’s books on dental visits. Again, pictures of an office and of other children will alleviate any anxiety.
5. Bring a Favorite Toy – Young children will appreciate and find comfort in having their favorite toy as a companion.

The dental team at Town Square Dental are trained to attend to the dental needs of children. The team is trusted and highly recommended for pediatric, general and cosmetic treatments and procedures.

Please contact Town Square Dental and make an appointment with a pediatric dentist near you.