Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety in Kids

Dental anxiety is common among people of all ages. However, it is especially common among young children. It can lead to a dental phobia, which may prevent people from seeking the oral healthcare they need. If your child has dental anxiety, here are a few tips to ease the fear.

Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety in Kids 

• Starting early is key to helping children feel comfortable at the dentist’s office. Sending your child for their first dental visit around the time they turn one is a good idea. This gives them healthy and strong teeth from the very beginning of their life and helps them develop a routine of visiting their dentist regularly.
• Bringing their favorite toy or blanket with them will help ease any fears they may have about going to the dentist. Let them pick out something they really like, and will look forward to having during their next visit to the dentist. Their favorite toy can be something small, like a teddy bear, or larger, like a favorite doll.
• Reading books about going to the dentist is another good way to prepare a child for their upcoming dental visit. Books like “Dental Visits Are Not Scary” by Jennifer Dewing and Kim Erickson can help make going to the dentist less frightening for your child. They will learn what to expect when going for their appointment and what steps they can take to make their visit go more smoothly.
• Games are another great way to involve your child in the preparation process for an upcoming dental visit. You can create games that involve them picking out their own toothbrush, learning how to brush their teeth properly, and even choosing a toothpaste that they enjoy. These games are a fun way for them to learn about taking care of their teeth and getting involved in their oral health from an early age!
• Leading by example is a great way to get your children involved in good oral hygiene. Tell them why it’s important to take care of your teeth and how healthy they are for you throughout your life. Having a healthy smile now will be very beneficial to them in the future, so teaching them the importance of great oral health now will help them maintain it as they grow into adulthood. 

Try these steps to help your child overcome dental anxiety and have an enjoyable experience at the dentist.

To learn more, please reach out to our dental practice in Cypress, TX, and have a consultation with our Dentist. Call us at (832) 353-3600 or schedule an online appointment, and we'll guide you further.