5 Tips to Get Your Kids Comfortable With the Dentist

Routine dental appointments are critical to maintaining our health, especially for kids. It’s important that parents instill this habit in their children at an early age. A trip to the dentist may seem like a trivial task for adults who know what to expect, but it can be intimidating—and even scary—for young kids.

According to the National Children’s Oral Health Foundation, tooth decay is the leading cause of childhood illness. Approximately 16 million children in the United States have untreated tooth decay. Tooth decay and other oral problems from a young age affect not only teeth but also overall health and all aspects of life.

Getting your child to the dentist can be daunting for parents, especially if your child has peers with prior negative experiences. You’re not alone if you’re unsure how to help your child feel comfortable with dental checkups, you’re not alone. Visiting a friendly and experienced dentist in Houston can make all the difference in creating a positive experience. Below are five tips to help your child overcome any fear and enjoy dentist visits.

Tell Them What to Expect

Fear can stem from the unknown. Going on the dental office website and showing your child pictures of the office can be helpful. When you call the office to schedule a visit, ask for a rundown of the appointment so you can relay that to your child later. As you brush your child’s teeth, explain that the dentist will do the same thing. The more information the child has, the more empowered they can feel.

Be Honest and Understanding

If your child needs dental work, it can be tempting to downplay or avoid explaining how cavities are treated. While honesty is the best policy, using calm, non-threatening language that your child can understand is essential. If your child is anxious about a dental visit, encourage them to share their fears. Listen closely and validate their feelings. Then, answer their questions with reassurance and share any positive dental experiences you’ve had. Choosing a compassionate Houston dentist who is experienced with children can also go a long way in helping ease their worries.

Explain that Dentists are the “Good Guys.”

Children need to know that dentists are superheroes for their teeth. Explain to your kids that they only get two sets of teeth, and we must take good care of them because they have to last a lifetime. Explaining that similar to brushing and flossing, visits to the dentist are part of that routine to grow big and strong. According to the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, you should take your child to the dentist twice a year. These visits should begin when your child gets his/her teeth, or around age one.

Make It Exciting!

As mentioned in the first step, showing your child pictures of the dental office can inevitably spark some enthusiasm. Some dentists have neat play areas and unique toys, making it something your child can look forward to. Going to the dentist is a new adventure! Using encouraging language, such as “We get to go to the dentist” instead of “We have to go to the dentist,” can also help make it a fun experience.

Be There

Being physically present during your child’s appointment goes a long way in ensuring they feel confident and safe. For many kids, separation from their caretaker or parent can cause anxiety and/or fear. Ensure that the person scheduling your appointment is okay with you staying with your child during the visit.

In addition to eating healthy foods and practicing good oral hygiene at home, one of the most important things you can do for your child’s dental health is to bring them in for regular checkups. Following these five tips will help your child feel more comfortable – and even excited—about dental visits.

Schedule an appointment with our team today to give your child a positive start toward a lifetime of healthy smiles!