Most children get nervous during their first visit to the dentist for dental checkup. The best dentists try to gain children’s trust. However, parents are responsible for addressing their children’s fears and preparing them for the exam.
This guide will give you some tips on how to calm little ones before visiting the dentist.
Encourage positivity
Most children are susceptible to their parents’ feelings. So, if you’re worried about your child’s visit to the dentist, try to control your fear. It would help if you didn’t show your nervousness. Sometimes, your negative feelings about dental exams make your child afraid. Let your children accept the importance of dental checkups to maintain healthy teeth and gums.
Put your kids at ease.
When you talk to your children about upcoming visits to the dentist, you should reassure them. Let the children know that they will not have to undergo painful procedures. The dentist will inspect the condition of the teeth and gums. Your children should know that dentists also give instructions on how to care for their teeth. Your encouragement will help your children overcome their fears.
Bring toys
You may want to bring some comforting toys to the dental office to help your children feel safe and calm. Some dental offices have toys to keep children busy during treatment.
A stuffed animal or your child’s favorite toy will give you a sense of comfort and security. This will also reduce your children’s anxiety during dental treatment.
Offer some exciting rewards.
As a parent, you can also promise your children a treat after a dental checkup. For example, you can promise them to watch a movie or go to an enjoyment park. But don’t give kids junk food or sugary treats before or after a dental checkup.
Choose the appropriate time for scheduling an appointment
Children and teenagers feel fresh and energetic in the morning. Therefore, morning is the best time to visit your local dentist for a checkup. You should avoid taking it when your little ones feel sleepy and lethargic. Meal times are also not suitable for dental checkups. If your children are hungry, they will not cooperate with their dentists.
Role-play at your home
Pretend play is a fantastic way to prepare children for a visit to the dentist. Pretend you are a dentist. On the other hand, your children will be patient. Create a dentist visit scenario where you must check and clean the children’s teeth. Practicing role-play will ease their fear.
Tell your kids what happens at the dental clinic.
During your dental exam, dentists will try to look for signs of cavities and other potential problems with:
- Oral tissues
- Jawbone
- Dentals
Dentists may also clean children’s teeth and determine if they need fluoride. They’ll cover topics like:
- Bad oral habits (finger and lip sucking)
- Regular dental checkups
- Proper nutrition
- teething
- Teeth development problems
- Activities to maintain oral hygiene
Your children will expect the right thing if they know these basic dental checks. They won’t have any fear of dental treatment.
My Family Dental is trusted with certified dentists for children’s dental exams. Experts offer teeth whitening, implants, and crowns. Choose the right center, and your first appointment will be a breeze.