5 Myths and Facts About Dentistry Your Kids Should Know

young qualified specialist dentist woman brushing the teeth of a small child who was brought to the reception. The concept of brushing baby teeth

Going to the dentist is important for maintaining good oral health. But for some kids, the thought of visiting the dentist can be scary. This fear is often fueled by myths and misconceptions about the dentist. As parents, it’s our responsibility to educate our kids about the dentist and help them understand what to expect during dental visits. In this post, we’ll address some common myths and facts about the dentist that kids should know about.

Myth: The Dentist is Scary

Fact: A Dentist Is Here to Help

It’s normal to feel a little nervous about going to the dentist, but the dentist is not scary. In fact, the dentist is there to help you keep your teeth healthy and strong. They use special tools to clean your teeth and check for any potential problems. If you’re feeling nervous, try talking to your dentist about your fears. They can help you feel more comfortable and explain what they’re doing so you can understand.

One way a dentist can make the experience more comfortable is by creating a welcoming and friendly environment. This can include having a waiting room with toys and books for kids to play with, as well as having a gentle and reassuring demeanor. Some dentists also offer amenities like headphones or TVs to help distract patients during procedures.

Additionally, many dentists are trained to work with children and know how to make them feel at ease. By building a trusting relationship with your dentist, you can feel more comfortable and less scared during dental visits.

Myth: Going to the Dentist Hurts

Fact: Modern Dentistry Is Very Sophisticated

Some people assume that going to the dentist will be painful, but this isn’t true. Dentists use modern techniques and equipment that make dental procedures virtually pain-free. If you do need a procedure that may cause discomfort, your dentist will give you local anesthesia to numb the area and make you feel more comfortable.

Local anesthesia is a common and safe method used by dentists for procedures that may cause discomfort. It works by temporarily numbing the area where the procedure will take place, so you won’t feel any pain during the procedure. The effects wear off after a few hours, but your dentist will provide post-procedure care instructions to help manage any discomfort.

Be sure to reassure your kids that they may feel a slight pinch when receiving the anesthesia, but it’s nothing to be scared of. Your dentist will make sure you’re comfortable and explain what they’re doing before administering any medication.

Myth: I Don’t Need to Go to the Dentist If My Teeth Feel Fine

Fact: Teeth Need Regular Maintenance

Even if your teeth feel fine, it’s important to visit the dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings. Your dentist can detect early signs of potential problems and treat them before they become serious. Regular dental visits can also help prevent cavities and gum disease, keeping your teeth strong and healthy.

Getting into the habit of going to the dentist regularly is important for maintaining good oral health. One way to do this is by scheduling routine dental appointments, such as every six months or once a year, depending on your dentist’s recommendation. You can also set reminders on your phone or calendar to help you remember when it’s time for your next visit.

Myth: The Dentist is Only for Adults

Fact: Everyone Needs a Dentist

The dentist is for everyone, including kids! In fact, it’s recommended that children start seeing a dentist as young as 6 months old. Regular dental visits can help your child develop good oral health habits and prevent any potential issues from developing.

Choosing a child-friendly dentist is important for your child’s dental health and overall experience at the dentist. A pediatric dentist, such as one at Rabel Family Dentistry, specializes in working with children and has unique training to provide care for their growing teeth. As your child gets older, they may eventually graduate to an adult dentist, but starting with a pediatric dentist can help them feel more comfortable and develop positive associations with going to the dentist.

Myth: The Dentist is Expensive

Fact: Dentistry Is Affordable and Necessary

Dental care is important for your overall health, but it doesn’t have to be expensive. Many dental insurance plans cover checkups and cleanings, and some clinics offer sliding scale fees based on income. Additionally, preventative dental care can help prevent more costly dental procedures down the road.

It’s important to budget for dental care, just like any other aspect of your health. While the cost of dental procedures can vary depending on location and type of treatment needed, it’s recommended to set aside at least $500-$1,000 per year for preventative dental care. This includes regular checkups, cleanings, X-rays, and fluoride treatments.

If you do need a more extensive procedure, your dentist will be able to provide an estimate and work with you on a payment plan if needed. By prioritizing dental care in your budget, you can maintain good oral health without breaking the bank.

As parents, it’s important to help our kids overcome any fears they may have about the dentist. By educating them about the truth behind common dental myths, we can help them feel more comfortable and confident during dental visits. Remember, the dentist is there to help keep their teeth healthy and strong, so don’t let fear hold your child back from getting the care they need.

By Dixie Somers / Freelance Writer

Dixie Somers is a freelance writer who loves to write for business, health, and women’s interests. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters. You can find her on Twitter and Facebook.