With all the equipment and intimidating tools, there’s no wonder children are afraid of going to the dentist. Some fears are associated with drastic changes, such as being separated from their parents during the session or the fact that tools need to enter their dental cavity. 

Even if most children grow out of their dental fears, it is always a good idea to remedy the issue even while they’re young. However, we understand that doing so can be a bit of a challenge. 

As most children have dental anxiety, it’s best to work with a pediatric dentist with vast experience with the matter. This is because they have been exposed to countless children, so they have curated tried and proven methods to help ease and calm the child. 

If you’re curious to know how you could help your kid get past this anxiety, keep reading. Here are some suggestions that may help you throughout the process:

Before the Dental Visit

One of the things that you should know about the developmental growth of children is that they need predictability in their life to help them adjust and transition in various situations. With that being said, waiting until the last minute to let them know they’re going to the dentist may heighten their anxiety. 

Because of this, it’s best to let them know ahead of time to help them mentally prepare for the visit to the dentist. During this period, you can help them go through their fear as the day approaches by answering their questions, giving them straightforward answers, limiting the number of details that you give, and letting them know that they can ask their pediatric dentist some questions too. 

When it comes to dealing with children, communication is key. So with that, let them know that going to the dentist is crucial in maintaining their teeth and gums.

During the Visit

When dealing with dental phobia, it’s best to ask your dentist for advice on how to handle the issue. This is because they are trained to deal with such circumstances and provide a gentle and less threatening approach to introducing dental care. 

When you’re finally at the dental clinic, ensure that your kids have their comfort blanket or toy. This can help calm and distract them from the visit, making them feel like they’re in a comfortable environment. 

Other things you should be mindful of are your actions and body language. If you show that you’re stressing out about the situation, chances are your children will be triggered by this as well. For this reason, remember to be gentle and calm when dealing with anxious children, so they know that there’s nothing to be worried about.

The Bottom Line: Dental Anxiety Can Be Difficult at First, But With the Proper Steps, Your Children Will Slowly Feel at Ease During Dental Visits

Choosing the right pediatric dentist can change the game when it comes to dentist appointments for your kids. With that being said, ensure that you’re following your dentist’s recommendations and our tips on how to manage your kid’s dental anxiety. 

How Can We Help You?

If you’re looking for a reputable pediatric dentist in Edmonton, you’ll be happy to know that you’ll find them at Edmonton Smiles.

Edmonton Smiles is one of the leading dental clinics in Edmonton, providing exceptional emergency dental, teeth whitening, and preventative services for you and your family. 

Book an appointment with us today!

 

Posted in Dental News & Advice