As a parent, you don’t want your kids to fear dentistry. Dental phobias may keep them from getting vital oral healthcare. Still, this problem doesn’t have to stick with them. Your child can learn how to overcome dental anxiety once they’re old enough. They’d have a smoother time with the dentist and enjoy healthier grins that way. As for the details, let your pediatric dental practice help. Here are four methods your kiddos can use to ease their dental fears.
Talk to the Dentist
If your child fears dental checkups, they don’t need to keep that fact to themselves. Gently encourage them to tell their dentist about it. (Alternatively, you can speak to the dentist yourself.)
You see, a good children’s dentist is kind and empathetic. They’ll listen to your youngster and take any concerns seriously. They can then adapt the treatment (within reason) to your child’s needs. Plus, kids often feel calmer when they know the dentist will try to make care less scary.
Listen to Music
The sound of dental drills may bother your little one. That’s unsurprising – keeping calm is hard when you hear something rough. Even so, they could listen to music as a workaround.
As you likely know, music is a great distraction. The right songs put you in a relaxed mood and take your mind off troubles. Well, the same applies to your kiddo. Have them bring earphones to the dental visit – they can listen to cheery tunes they like.
Choose a Calm Appointment Time
Your child’s anxiety over their dental visit may rise as the day goes on. Later appointment times give them a chance to build up their fears. To compensate, have them see the dentist in the morning.
In reality, mornings aren’t that busy for a dentist. They usually see fewer people at this point in the day. Plus, fewer tools will be making noise in these hours. As such, the setting will be calmer and less stressful for your youngster. A morning visit also gives them less time to dread their treatment.
Try Sedation Dentistry
If all else fails, there’s always the treatment approach to your child’s fear. They can opt to get sedation dentistry at their next dental visit. This field will ensure your tyke stays calm during the procedure.
Many dental sedatives are safe for kids to use. For example, nitrous oxide will only make them feel relaxed and mildly euphoric. IV sedation is more intense but still only causes a state of deep relaxation. The only side effects they might face are some post-procedure grogginess.
Using these approaches, your child can learn how to overcome dental anxiety. Feel free to talk to your pediatric dentist for other relevant tips.
About the Author
Dr. Homer Sedighi is a pediatric dentist based in Chesterfield, MO. Since earning his DMD from Washington University, he’s loved helping kids with their teeth and gums. His specialties thus include preventive, restorative, and even emergency pediatric dentistry. Of course, he and his dental team also offer quality sedation services for their child patients. Dr. Sedighi currently practices at his self-titled clinic and is reachable on his website and by phone at (636) -777-7777.