Dental Anxiety In Children: A Parent’s Guide
Is your child afraid of the dentist?
There are steps you can take to help change their perception.
We all want the best for our children's health, including dental care. However, many children experience anxiety about visiting the dentist. At BrightWork Family Dentistry, we understand these fears and work to create positive experiences that build lifelong healthy dental habits.
Understanding Dental Anxiety in Children
Dental anxiety in children is more common than you might think.
Watch for these indicators that your child might be experiencing dental anxiety:
Trouble sleeping the night before a dental appointment
Showing signs of distress or crying when discussing the dentist
Becoming clingy or unusually quiet when arriving at the dental office
Complaining of stomach aches or other physical symptoms
Why Children Experience Dental Anxiety
Understanding the root causes can help address your child's fears.
Fear of the Unknown
Many children fear dental visits simply because they don't know what to expect. The unfamiliar environment, equipment, and procedures can feel overwhelming.
Previous Negative Experiences
A difficult past dental experience can create lasting anxiety. Hearing about someone else's negative experience on the playground can affect a child's perception.
Parental Influence
Children often pick up on their parents' dental anxieties. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry emphasizes that parents play a crucial role in shaping their children's attitudes toward dental care.
Strategies for Managing Dental Anxiety
1. Start Early
The American Dental Association recommends scheduling your child's first dental visit by their first birthday [2]. Early positive experiences can help prevent anxiety from developing.
2. Choose a Family-Friendly Dentist
At BrightWork Family Dentistry, we know creating a welcoming environment for children is important.
3. Use Positive Language
Avoid words like "hurt," "pain," or "shot." Instead, use positive phrases:
"The dentist will count your teeth."
"We're going to make your teeth sparkly clean."
"Dr. Crowley will check your smile."
4. Play Pretend Dentist
Help familiarize your child with dental visits through play. Set up a pretend dental office at home and take turns being the dentist and the patient. Use a mirror to look at teeth together to familiarize your child with the experience before their appointment.
Tips for Parents
Before the Visit
Schedule appointments early in the day when children are fresh
Avoid using the dentist as a threat or punishment
Read children's books about dental visits
Get a good night's sleep
Have a light, healthy meal before the appointment
During the Visit:
Stay calm and positive
Hold your child's hand if needed
Use encouraging words
Follow the dentist's guidance about your presence in the room.
Building Long-term Dental Confidence
Our ultimate goal is to help children develop a positive relationship with dental care that lasts a lifetime. We do this with regular and consistent visits, celebrating successful appointments, building trust, and making visits with Dr. Crowley fun and educational.
Maintaining good habits at home will also help make appointments less stressful for your child. Encouraging regular brushing and flossing routines with positive reinforcement is a great place to start.
When to Seek Additional Help
Consider consulting with us if your child:
Experiences severe anxiety despite multiple positive visits
Has had traumatic dental experiences
Shows signs of dental phobia affecting daily life
Requires extensive dental work
We are here to help make each visit to the dentist a positive one. We believe every child deserves to feel comfortable at the dentist.
Remember, dental anxiety is common and manageable with the right approach and support. BrightWork Family Dentistry is committed to helping your child develop a healthy, positive relationship with dental care. Contact us today to discuss how we can make your child's next dental visit successful!