How to Ease Your Child’s Nerves About the Dentist

Children are frequently scared of the dentist, even if they have nothing to fear. Pain, powerlessness, and fear of the unknown are all reasons why a child may feel anxious about visiting a dentist. If you’re looking for ways to calm your child’s fears and help them overcome their nerves, there are a few things you can do to help them prior to their visit.

Consider a Pediatric Dentist

Some dentists specialize in treating children’s teeth. These dentists are familiar with childhood anxiety and nerves about their visit. Dentists who specialize in pediatrics frequently have specialized toys, materials or equipment available to help the child relax during their visit. A medicaid dentist may also help to make a pediatric dentist more cost-friendly.

Talk to Your Child

Talk to your child about his or her fears about the dentist. If you can understand why they are nervous about going, then you can help to calm their fears. It’s important to be straight-forward and clear with your child about why they are going to the dentist and what they will experience. By telling them everything that will happen, you can help reduce the fear of the unknown when they go. This will ultimately put them more at ease as they will know what to expect.

Talk to Your Dentist

Talking to your child’s dentist prior to the visit can also help the dentist to understand how to treat your child while they’re at the office. Be specific about what your child fears. If the dentist understands why your child is nervous, they can make adjustments to ease your child’s fears. For example, if your child is afraid of the sharp objects that are put in their mouth during the visit, the dentist can ease your child’s nerves by explaining the function of each sharp instrument. When a child knows and understands why the dentist is doing what they are doing, they are less likely to experience fear.

It is common for children to have nerves about going to the dentist. Fear of pain or the unknown may drive them to dread the dentist for days. If your child is concerned about going to the dentist, it’s important to try and ease their anxiety. By completing steps such as talking to them or the dentist and seeking out a pediatric dentist, you can help make your child as comfortable as possible.

By Emma Sturgis