- Dental

Tips for Modesto Parents on How to Help a Child with Dental Anxiety

Like adults, children also suffer from dental anxiety that might ruin the whole experience for the kid and the parent every single time after that. But, this anxiety needs to be overcome and is essential to dental hygiene says a Modesto kids dental office. Here are some top methods for parents in Modesto to help their child feel more relaxed at the dentist and have a positive experience there.

What Is Dental Anxiety in Kids?

Children may feel anxiety around visiting the dentist for many reasons: pain, a strange place, or a bad experience. The first step to addressing dental anxiety is recognizing it, and this might come in the form of crying, tantrums or even refusing to go to the dentist at all.

Dental Visits Need to Start Early

Taking your child to the dentist early will help them familiarize themselves with the place and the steps involved. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, your child should see a dentist by their first birthday or no later than six months after their first tooth erupts. Getting them in the door and experiencing something positive is a great way to set the tone for future trips.

Select a Dentist a Modesto Who is Kid Friendly

Choosing a dentist who is specifically trained to treat children may help. Pediatric dentists specialize in treating young patients and will usually establish a fun, kid-friendly atmosphere. And search for a Modesto dentist who has a good track record with children in reducing fears.

Practice at Home

You can role-play dental visits at home with your child so they will be desensitized. Pretend to be the dentist Have your child pretend to be a patient who is getting ready to see you (the dentist) use a mirror and a toothbrush for this. This type of play can help to make the actual visit feel less foreign and frightening.

Stay Calm and Positive

Kids have a funny way of sensing how their parents feel. Anxiety is contagious; if you are nervous about the visit — so will your child. Be calm and optimistic, and encourage your kid that the dentist is necessary to protect their tooth. Do not call it your sad hell chair or whatever phobia of the dentist you have.

Bring Comfort Items

Let your child take a beloved toy, blanket, or stuffed animal to the dentist. This can create a sense of security and reduce anxiety; by having a known comfort item.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Encourage your child to be so brave and cooperative during the dental visit. Good behavior should always be rewarded, as this boosts their confidence and increases the odds of a good visit next time around. Consider a reward, such as a sticker or an outing to the park, after the visit.

Describe Why Oral Health Is Important

Make sure that your child understands the reason behind dental visits. Tell them the dentist is there to keep their teeth healthy and not make it so they can eat, talk, and smile! Reminding your child, how important it is to have good oral health will keep them serious about dental visits.

However, overcoming dental anxiety in kids often takes time, preparation, and a supportive hand. However, by preparing your child and using a combination of strategies to soothe and reassure him or her you can teach your child not to be afraid of the dentist. For those residing in Modesto, you should search for child friendly dentist who is well-versed in the psychology of kids and gets the necessary experience in how to make sure that he covers an optimized procedure. Not only will tackling dental anxiety make sure your kid has no problem with his or her oral health, but these habits start a lifetime of healthy teeth.

 

 

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Peter Thompson: Peter, a futurist and tech commentator, writes about emerging technology trends and their potential impacts on society.
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