A visit to the dentist can be scary for kids, especially when it’s their first visit. Going somewhere like Howell Dentistry for the first time can be nerve wracking for a child, but more often than not, dentists are great at calming children. However, sitting in an armchair surrounded by unfamiliar tools and machines while having a stranger take a look inside their mouth can make children uncomfortable. Given this, it’s your responsibility as a parent to understand pediatric dentistry and how to introduce it into your child’s life without drawing fear.
Don’t Give Complicated Details
Children ask a lot of questions, but try your best to keep dental details as simple as possible. Explain to them clearly why they need to go to the dentist, (click here for some examples of good ones), and how it will help them grow stronger and healthier teeth.
However, avoid discussing dental procedures in detail as this might confuse and even scare them. Also, don’t promise them that everything will be okay, because if it turns out that they need treatment, they will no longer trust you and the dentist.
Do Choose Your Words Carefully
Stay away from scary words such as “hurt,” “pain,” and “shot.” Instead, choose words that are more positive like “healthy,” “strong,” and “clean.” Make it seem that the dentist office is a place where they can get better teeth and a brighter smile. Just play with your words and avoid bribing them just to convince them to go. I hear that Dental Clinic Adelaide are a great example of this.
Do Role-Play
Role-playing and pretending with children can help prepare them for the visit to a pediatric dentist in Charleston, SC. Before the appointment, play out roles by pretending that your child is the dentist and you are the patient, or vice-versa. Don’t make drilling or scary noises. Instead, happily count their teeth and check their mouth like it’s the easiest thing to do.
You can also use a mirror to show your child what the dentist may do during the checkup. Give your child a toothbrush and ask them to show you how to clean their teeth. These suggestions will help your child be more familiar with the procedures to be performed on checkup day.
Especially very young kids have not yet developed a preconceived notion or fear toward dental visits. Take advantage of this by painting a positive picture to them. This way, you won’t have a difficult time bringing them to the dentist whenever it’s necessary.
Sources:
8 Tips to Help Kids Overcome Fear of Dentists
parents.com
DO’S AND DON’TS OF YOUR CHILD’S FIRST VISIT TO THE DENTIST
beautyandwellnesstv.com