By Devan McGuinness - www.babble.com
1. Find a dentist who is great with kids.
(We know one!) A good dentist really goes a long way when it comes to dental fears. Find someone through recommendations who is good with kids. Usually pediatric dentists are great with kids and have great offices set up.
2. Explain Often the Importance of Oral Health
Have regular conversations about why it's important to brush and floss and visit the dentist. Talk regularly, because then it won't seem so out of the norm to take care of your teeth. (Make toothbrushing time fun each night! Set a great example for your kids and brush your teeth alongside them.)
3. Meet and Greet Time
Before your child goes in for their first appointment, have a meet and greet first. Take your child to the office to see the place, meet the dentist and try out the chair before any procedures are done. (Read your little ones books about going to the dentist, too! We recommend any of these.)
4. Make Regular Dental Visits
The more regularly they visit (every 6 months), the less afraid they will be because it will become less unknown.
5. Explain in Kid-Friendly Terms That They Understand
Let your child know what to expect, but in terms they understand. Tell them, or ask the dentist to tell them, what they're doing and what to expect so they won't be so afraid.
6. Don't Share Your Own Fears
I personally am not a fan of the dentist, never have been, but I am careful never to share that with my kids. If you do, it could very well make them more afraid and stressed. (This is the very reason why some of our dentists prefer parents to not go back with their children. We love showing them that there is nothing to be afraid of. The dentist can be a fun and very rewarding place!)
7. Tell Your Child's Dentist
If your child is feeling anxious or afraid, let the dentist know. They may be able to help ease their fear and treat them with a little more care.
8. Avoid Scary Words
Kids and scary words don't really get along well. Avoid using words like "hurt" or "freezing" or "shot" with your kids if you think it could make them more anxious.
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