How To Help A Nervous Child Overcome Their Fear Of The Dentist
Posted on: 4 January 2017
It is just a fact of life that at some point every child has to go to the dentist and have their teeth cleaned, and some amount of nervousness is normal. But what happens when you have a child that is afraid to go to the dentist? There are a few things you can try to help them feel more comfortable with that first visit.
Start Your Children Early
The earlier you start your children on dental visits, the better. Because fear is a learned response in most situations, a young child does not have a fear of the dentist, and if they have a few good visits without problems, they are not likely to develop a problem with going in for check-ups and cleanings. If they are not afraid of the regular visits, it will be easier to get them through fillings and other work, should it become necessary.
Teach Good Oral Hygiene
When you talk to your kids about how important brushing and flossing is, explain to them that if they do a good job with this, their trips to the dentist will be much easier. This is a good time to explain how routine cleanings and the fluoride treatments they get at the dentist help to keep their teeth strong and healthy. Emphasize the connection between good oral hygiene and the dentist in the battle against cavities.
Don't Offer Too Much Information Prior to the Visit
When talking to your child about an upcoming appointment, don't say things like, "it will be fine," or you may end up in a situation where the child needs a filling and losing faith in your word. Keep the discussion very simple and try not to give too much information about the process. The more information they have, the more they will wonder what is going to happen. Often children answer those questions in their mind with more questions and create anxiety for themselves that just makes the situation worse.
Don't Bribe Your Children Into Going
First of all, this tactic will not work well. It creates a situation where anytime the child wants to get something, they just say no to going or doing what you ask of them. In most cases, it causes a fight, and they learn that they can get a "reward" anytime they want. Talk to them honestly about needing to go, and if they have a great appointment without fighting you, reward them without tying it to the visit. Instead of "because you did a great job at the dentist…." try waiting a day or two and then give them something or do something special that is now unrelated.
Remember that some amount of stress is normal and even the most well-behaved kids may have trouble with those first few visits. Try to be understanding and supportive of them and let them know you understand. It will go a lot further than fighting in the end.
Share