How Can I Ease My Child’s Fear of Going to the Dentist

Many children have a fear of going to the dentist. They are not alone. Many adults have the same fear. It can be stressful to see your child worry or even cry. All parents just want it to go smoothly. Here are a few tips you can try to help ease your child’s fear when they visit our pediatric dentist in Temple, Texas. 

 

1. Stay Positive: When you talk to your child about going to the dentist, try to stay positive. Believe it or not, children are able to pick up on fear and anxiety. So, let them know how much you enjoy going. Maybe tell them how good your teeth feel after you get them cleaned. You can even tell them that they even get to pick out a toy at the end. Just keep everything happy and positive. 
2. Play Games: Children tend to learn more or even ease anxiety when they play games. Go to our website under the dental games tab and have them play two or three dental-related games. The games are a great way for them to think of questions they might have and help them get more comfortable about going to the dentist. 
3. Don’t Bribe: Again, kids are smart. They know when you are bribing them to be good or behave. If you start with a bribe, it could lead them to think something bad is going to happen or this is not going to be fun. This all leads to anxiety. Instead, at the end of the visit continue with the positivity. Tell them how well they did or how brave they were. Use compliments. 
4. Be Honest But Simple: Be honest with your kids. Don’t tell them that nothing is going to happen because that might not be the case. There might be a cavity or something else. Keep the trust. Also, be sure to answer your child’s questions honestly but don’t go into extreme detail. Let the dental experts explain the procedure and what they are going to do.
5. Avoid Anxiety Words: Try not to use words like ouchy, pain, needle, drill, shot, pulling, etc. These are all words that can cause anxiety. Instead, make it fluffy. They count your teeth (the pick), water-whistle toothbrush (drill), pictures of your teeth (x-rays), squirt (shot), heavy blanket (lead bib), the tickle toothbrush (tooth cleaner), etc.

We always want children to feel at ease when going to the dentist. Especially when it comes to their first visit. We can’t stress enough to have your children play some games on our website. We have found that it is very helpful for children. If you are looking for a children’s dentist in Temple, Texas look no further! Call Canyon Creek Dentistry at 254-771-5900 or schedule your appointment online, today!