Dental anxiety can make it difficult for kids to sit still, cooperate during procedures, and focus on their oral care. As a parent, it’s your job to help your child overcome their anxiety while ensuring their oral health.
START DENTAL VISITS WHILE THEY’RE YOUNG
Scheduling a first visit for your kids at a dental office should start as soon as baby teeth begin to emerge. Starting early helps your child get used to the environment of a dental office and the routine of the visit. Additionally, it lets the dentist get an idea of how your child’s teeth are growing and builds a relationship that can last throughout childhood and well into adulthood.
In addition to building a relationship with the dentist at an early age, starting checkups at a young age can help prevent future problems. As children grow, they can be properly educated on how to maintain great oral health and prevent cavities and other oral complications. This helps them to develop strong oral hygiene habits that will last well into adulthood.
TAKE A COMFORTING ITEM TO THE DENTIST’S APPOINTMENT
Bring a favorite toy or blanket for your child to hold during the visit. Having something familiar will help your child associate good feelings with visiting a dentist’s office — creating a positive association at a young age.
Bringing a favorite stuffy can soothe an upset child or distract them while the dentist works on their teeth. For very young children, try bringing a blanket that smells of your scent from home. This will help comfort your little one while they are in the unfamiliar environment of the dental clinic.
READ STORIES OR PLAY GAMES INVOLVING DENTIST VISITS
There are a variety of games and books you can buy for young kids that can help them prepare for their first visit to the dentist’s office. Some books help the child learn what to expect, thus helping them to feel calmer during the visit.
In addition to reading these with your kids and playing these games with them, it’s also important that you take the time to use positive language when talking about going to the dentist and practicing oral hygiene at home.
TEACH KIDS THE IMPORTANCE OF GREAT ORAL HEALTH
As a parent, you want your child to grow up with strong oral health habits. But what can you do to instill good oral habits? Well, one of the best things you can do is lead by example. Your child is more likely to adopt healthy behaviors if they see you practicing them regularly. This can mean brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing daily. It can also help to limit sugary foods, which eat away at tooth enamel and lead to cavities. Limit between-meal snacks, which can break down tooth structure and create acid that wears away the tooth’s protective coating.
So remember, if you want your child to practice great oral hygiene, first practice it yourself!
Vosh Dental is equipped with the best dentists and modern amenities that enable the best treatment for the patients. To learn more, visit our office at 4541 HERITAGE TRACE PARKWAY SUITE #1301 FORT WORTH, TX 76244. You can also reach us at (817) 203-1561 and schedule an appointment.
