Is your child always scared of a trip to the dentist? While some children have enjoyed going to the dentist since day one, others take time to warm up. If they are fearful or get upset during a visit, you should not be embarrassed and/or alarmed.
A trip to the dentist with your kid should not end up in tears. It should be fun and interesting. If your kid dreads anything to do with the dentist, use these tips to help him or her overcome the fear:
Bring books and toys for the wait
Often, it is the anticipation of feared events that is usually worse compared to the actual event itself. Whenever your child sits in the dentist’s waiting room, he or she has ample time to ponder about how awful, painful, and uncomfortable that injection or sit will be. Taking his or her mind off the whole thing using toys or books is highly effective. When you take your trip to the dentist, bring along his favorite books or toys. This ensures the child has so much fun that he or she will forget about all their dental fears.
Consider Role-play
You can help your kid be courageous by playing a make-believe trip to the dentist right in the living room. Keep it comfortable and light. Try to explain to them all about the dentist visit. Let your kid act as the patient while you play the dentist. Pretend to conduct routine cleaning, filling, x-ray, teeth examination, etc. The main objective of the whole thing is to familiarize the little one with everything that takes place in the dentist’s office. This imaginary visit will surely prepare the young one for the actual visit. It will surprise you how confident he or she will be during your dental visit.
Settle for a child friendly dentist
Generally, the dentist you settle for plays a huge role in your child’s reaction. Your prospective dentist must be friendly. He or she must be great with kids. The dentist should have a comfortable office. He or she must be able to understand kids’ special needs. Take your time researching on the best dental offices for kids. It will go miles in ensuring your kid gets the best dentist and dentistry environment. Ultimately, settle for a professional who you are sure your kid will trust and like. This plays a big role in combating the little one’s fears.
Avoid bribery or promises
One mistake most parents or guardians commit is making promises or bribing their children anytime they are planning to visit the dentist. This is disastrous. It increases their apprehension. The prudent thing is to reward your brave young one after the trip to the dentist. You can shower him or her with praises for being courageous. Alternatively, take your kid to the zoo or mall.
Most kids, just like adults, have dental phobia. It is normal. The above tips are effective in helping your child’s trip to the dentist be fun, fear free and comfortable. http://ddsconnections.com/ has adequate recommendations regarding beating the phobia.
