Dentistry For Children: How to Tackle Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a common problem for children. But it's important for parents to start children early with dental visits. This will help the child get used to the dental environment. Here are some tips for managing your child's dental anxiety.

Tips for Managing Dental Anxiety in Kids 

One of the most important things you can do to manage your child's dental anxiety is to start early! When kids are young, they often have minimal fears about going to the prosthodontist. However, as they get older and begin facing more and more discomfort and strange sensations at the dental office, dental anxiety, and fear can begin to set in. To help minimize this, it is best to start taking your kids to the dental offices when they begin teething and get their very first tooth. This will help them develop positive associations with the prosthodontist's office and thus help to prevent dental anxiety later on in life.

• Take a comforting item to the prosthodontist's appointment

Children feel comforted when they take a special blanket, stuffed animal, or other comfort item with them to the prosthodontist's office. When your child feels physically comfortable, he is more likely to relax mentally. This can help him remain still during examinations and cleanings and help ensure that he receives the best possible care.

Consider bringing a book or magazine for your child to read during the examination. You can also bring a tablet so that he can watch his favorite shows or play apps to help him stay distracted and calm.

• Read stories or play games involving prosthodontist visits

Helping your children feel comfortable at the prosthodontist's office starts at an early age. The earlier you start talking about the prosthodontist and taking care of your teeth, the more likely your kids are to avoid dental anxiety in the future. One way to instill a sense of familiarity is to read stories about going to the prosthodontist or playing pretend games about brushing and flossing teeth. These activities may help your child feel more comfortable during their own first visit.

• Teach Kids the Importance of Great Oral Health

One of the best ways to teach your children about good oral habits is by exhibiting the proper actions yourself. Children learn by watching and mimicking their parents and other caregivers. If you practice proper oral hygiene at home, you'll teach your child to do the same. They'll see you brushing your teeth at least twice a day for two minutes at a time. They'll watch you floss regularly and visit your prosthodontist for regular cleanings. All of these behaviors will become familiar to them, and they'll also become second nature to them.

• Lead By Example

Modeling good behavior is one of the best ways to get your kids to associate positive feelings with going to the prosthodontist. It's not enough to just tell your kids about the importance of great oral health. You need to show them how it's done! Brushing your teeth with your child is a great way to teach them what to do and how to do it properly. Likewise, taking regular trips to the prosthodontist can also be a great way to show your children that taking care of one's teeth is important.

The prosthodontist in Atlanta, GA, and the team are happy to explain the dental treatments offered at the practice in detail. If you would like to learn more about our dental services or dental care tips, we invite you to give us a call at (404) 255-4575 and schedule a consultation.