How To Stop Your Child From Being Scared At The Dentist
Photo by . MM Dental . from Pexels
As a child, going to the dentist can be something that they are scared of and this can then grow and stem into their adult life. This can have a negative impact on the healthcare of your child as they head into adulthood as it might put them off going. One of the best ways to curb this fear and to help them is to start young by helping them to not be scared. We have put together some top tips to help them not be afraid and to foster healthy habits that they can then utilize for the rest of their lives. Here are some ways to stop your child from being scared of the dentist…
Explain to them what the dentist is for and why they have to go
A lot of the time fear comes from the unknown. They might be scared of the dentist as they don’t know what to expect, why they are going or what will happen when they get there. Sit them down and explain to them that you will take them to a nice dentist such as Sierra Dental Care and what will happen when they are there. They will learn it’s not something to fear and that they’re there to help.
Buy them books and have them watch videos to help their fears
Sometimes a better way to get through to your child is indirectly as opposed to a conversation. We recommend purchasing some books or watching some videos such as on YouTube that are designed to help children understand more about going to the dentist. These will explain in a child-friendly way what the visit will entail, what will happen before and after and why there is no reason for them to be afraid.
Have them come with you so they can see there is nothing to be afraid of
Another great way to help your child not be afraid of the dentist is to have them come with you and not attend an appointment themselves. This way they can see that you are absolutely fine and not afraid and then they will feel the same way themselves. Be as positive as you can throughout the experience and have the dentist explain to them what is happening as they go so they can see check-ups are pain-free and an important part of life. You could take them out for a treat such as milkshake after to show them how proud you are.
These are just a few things you can do to stop your child being afraid of going to the dentist. Taking care of their oral hygiene is one of the most important things you can do and helping them think of the dentist as a positive thing will also really help. What are some of the things you’ve done in the past or are looking to do to help stop your child being scared of the dentist? Let us know in the comments below, we’d love to hear from you.
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- Lisa has been blogging since 2013, and loves sharing resources and ideas for living a simple life. To get free printables, bonus words, and more - sign up for the newsletter.
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Great advice
This is great advice, thank you! My youngest two love going to the dentist, but my oldest does not at all. Luckily she hasn’t had to have anything major done in a long time, besides cleanings which she is ok with.