Dental Fears in Kids? 5 Ways to Help Them Feel Relaxed

Many healthcare providers have been observing changes in their practices with the COVID-19 pandemic. Hospital NICUs are experiencing fewer premature births. Dentists have more patients with cracked teeth and TMJ pain. Our office is noticing an interesting trend as well—more adults are starting orthodontic treatment.

Masks Make It Easy To Hide Braces

Going to the dentist can be exciting for some kids, but some children are nervous to visit or scared of the dentist. What do you do if your child experiences dental anxiety? Do you know how to get over dental phobia?

Woodhill Dental Specialties has pediatric dentists who know how to handle children at any anxiety level. Treating your child’s dental anxiety at an early age can ensure they visit the dentist regularly throughout their lifetimes. 

If your child is terrified of the dentist or even a little anxious, here are a few tips to help alleviate anxiety at the dentist.

Why Is My Child Scared of the Dentist?

Children may have several reasons to be anxious about visiting the dentist, even for just a cleaning or other preventative care. A dental office may be a new experience with a room full of strangers. 

There are trays with metal instruments and huge dental chairs that can look a little scary. Not to mention, dentists have to get into their personal space to clean their teeth. 

They also may be concerned that the dentist could find a cavity, and, let’s face it — dentists are always the “scary” place to visit in jokes, TV shows, and movies. That’s a lot of things for a child to process! 

Other factors could include:

• Not prepared fully for the first visit
• Hearing of negative experiences from family members or friends
• Bad experience from a previous visit
• Not liking the environment of the dentist’s office
• Concern that tooth decay or cavities may mean use of a needle or drill
• Anxiety tooth pain could be made worse
• Anxiety toothache could be seen as the child doing something “bad,” like not brushing regularly
• Fears of the unknown

How to Overcome Dental Anxiety

The best way to cure dentist anxiety is to nip it in the bud, as they say. Ensure your child is well prepared for their first visit to the dentist. Assure them that there is no reason to be afraid of a dental visit. There are several ways you can do this.

Here are five ways you can prepare your child for their dental visit.

• Show your child positive dentist videos, such as those on YouTube of Daniel Tiger or other children’s favorites visiting the dentist. 
• Read books about characters visiting the dentist. Curious George, The Berenstain Bears, and other favorites have books about dental visits and brushing teeth. 
• Take your child with you when a sibling goes for a teeth cleaning or even when you go. They’ll be able to see first-hand how the instruments work, making it less scary.
• Allow the child to bring a comfort object, such as a stuffed animal or blanket they love. 
• Teach them about teeth. You’ve heard the term “knowledge is power.” Learning about teeth and gums and how to clean them may make dental visits easier. Imagine how proud they will be when they can impress their dentist by naming the different teeth! 
• Practice relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises or listening to music to help reduce stress. 

Pediatric Dentistry in Dallas, TX

Another way to help with a child’s anxiety with dentists is to have the right dentist. Woodhill Dental Specialties has a team of dentists, including two specializing in pediatric dentistry. They know how to handle children of all temperaments, including those with special needs.