What To Do If Your Child Is Scared Of The Dentist

Fear of the dentist is really common among kids. Even some adults are known to be very anxious when in the dentist’s chair.

However, this fear, or dental anxiety, is known to have really bad effects on people’s oral health, as it can prevent people from getting even the most basic care they need. If you are worried that your child might be afraid of the dentist, and as a result, protest to getting their oral needs addressed, here are 5 great strategies to curb this fear:
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1. Teach Them About The Dentist Early

Kids can be afraid of what they don’t know or don’t understand. The best thing you can do to prevent this is to simply teach them about what a dentist is, and how important it is to take care of their oral health.

There are even lots of great educational videos online that can teach kids about the dentist in a fun and engaging way.
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2. Schedule Check Ups Regularly‍

It’s perfectly normal for children to feel anxious the first time they see a dentist, even if you talk to them about it before.

However, the more often they see the dentist, the less likely they'll be afraid of them since they will know what to expect.

Moreover, kids who are scared of the dentist are afraid of any potential pain they may feel while in the office. With regular check-ups, most of these appointments will likely involve professional cleanings and short exams, which are totally pain-free!
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3. Choose the Right Pediatric Dentist‍

A good pediatric dentist knows how to deal with children who may be a bit more anxious, and will approach them with a lot of warmth and compassion. 

You should look for a dentist who has experience in treating children. Ask family members or friends with children for some recommendations, or check the dentist’s online reviews to see how they deal with kids who are anxious.
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4. Teach Good Oral Hygiene at Home‍

Great oral care at home greatly reduces the risks of dental damage such as cavities or gum disease, which can cause lots of pain in children.

Your pediatric dentist should provide you with lots of useful tips on how to care for your child’s teeth.
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5. Use Positive Language When Talking about the Dentist‍

You should not make it sound like going to the dentist is “bad” or a “punishment”. Using positive language when describing a dentist or future appointment can significantly lower the amount of fear a child experiences.