Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety in Kids

Dental anxiety refers to a child's fear of going to the dentist. It can range from mild anxiety to severe dental phobia. Dental anxiety can cause your child to avoid going to the dentist, which can result in poor dental habits and tooth decay. You can help your child overcome dental anxiety with these steps.

Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety in Kids 

Starting children early with dental care and oral health care lessons is important for their overall health. Not only does it establish good oral health habits, but it reinforces positive attitudes toward going to the dentist's office. The more comfortable they are with your dentist early on in life, the more receptive they'll be when it comes time for their first checkup and cleaning! Here are some helpful tips for managing your child's dental anxiety.

• Start your kids on the right foot when it comes to visiting the dentist. They should be able to associate fun and positivity with the dentist's office to avoid developing feelings of stress later on. It's okay to be open and honest about your own feelings towards visiting the dentist. If your kids have a positive role model to look up to in regard to dental visits, they'll follow it.
• Be sure to read with your kids or visit websites that detail what to expect on their first visit. The more prepared they feel, the less anxious they may be.
• You can also bring their favorite toy or blanket to help them feel comfortable in the dental office. These seemingly small comforts will go a long way in making the first visit a pleasant one.
• Try reading children's books about the dentist to start the conversation on dental treatments and the importance of practicing the best oral hygiene at home. Finally, lead by example! Children mimic their parent's actions, so let your kids see you brushing your teeth regularly and flossing once a day. This will create a connection in their minds between proper oral care at home and visits to the doctor. 
• Take your child to a pediatric dentist who is trained to deal with little children. A pediatric dentist is a dentist who has received an additional two years of specialized training after becoming a general dentist. This training focuses on the care and prevention of cavities and other oral issues in children as well as teenagers. 

Gentle Care Dentistry for Children & Adolescents

Our dentists and team take special care to provide a calming environment for children of all ages. We want your child's first experience at the dentist to be a great one – one where they learn the importance of great oral health and a trusting relationship with their dental care provider. We understand the importance of providing gentle care dentistry for children and want to ensure that every child that walks through our door enjoys their experience at our office!

Visit Beautiful Dentistry at 2125 E Warner Rd #101, Tempe, AZ 85284, or call us at (480) 831-1700 to learn more about ways to keep teeth healthy.