 In
the best of all worlds, taking our children to the dentist would
be like a walk in the park. On the day of their appointment,
they would run to the car squealing excitedly, "Yeahhhh! We're going to get our teeth cleaned." However, in the real world, for most of our children the mere thought of a dentist chair and someone in a white coat instills fear. So to help make your child's next dental visit a little less stressful, here are a few do's and don'ts.
DO ESTABLISH A PARTNERSHIP WITH YOUR CHILD'S DENTIST
Talking to your child's dentist and understand exactly what will happen during their visit so you can help your child feel more comfortable about going to the dentist by knowing what to expect. The parent, dentist and child should operate as a team.
DON'T PROMISE YOUR CHILD AN EXPENSIVE PRESENT IF HE OR SHE IS WELL-BEHAVED
The prospect of a treat may cause your little one to assume that he or she is about to do something very difficult. This can cause unnecessary fear. A surprise waiting to be given just after the visit may be a better idea.
DO SCHEDULE A MORNING APPOINTMENT
Children are more rested in the morning, and morning appointments usually have less waiting time. If your child is scheduled to visit the dentist after school, they are more likely to be tired, and he or she may worry about the appointment all day.
DON'T TELL YOUR CHILD TO "BE BRAVE" OR "NOTHING WILL HURT"
The idea that seeing the dentist requires being brave or that something might hurt may have never occurred to the child so there's no need to instill fear in them.
DO HELP YOUR CHILD RELAX WHILE YOU WAIT
During any waiting time, sit close beside your child and maybe even read him or her a story. This not only provides distraction, but also places a child in a more relaxed frame of mind. |
Keep that Smile Beautiful
6 ways to keep your smile beautiful
- Visit your dentist twice a year.
- Brush at least twice a day - after breakfast and before bedtime.
- Brush all of your teeth, not just the front ones.
- Spend at least 3 minutes each time you brush.
- Be sure your toothbrush has soft bristles.
- Learn how to floss your teeth. The floss gets rid of food that's hidden where your toothbrush can't get it, no matter how well you brush.
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DON'T CREATE ANXIETY
Keep in mind that your tone of voice and body language can create a sense of fear or apprehension in an unsuspecting child. When talking to your child about their dental visit, the parent who is more comfortable with dental treatment should do the talking. Also, allow your dentist to use his or her experience to determine how much your child should be told just prior to the procedure. A child who comes to the office already intensely worried about a procedure is much more difficult to calm.
DO ASK QUESTIONS OF THE DENTIST BEFORE THE VISIT
Find out what your dentist's philosophy is on parents joining their children. If you are present for treatment, it's best to be the dentist's "silent" partner.
Healthy dental habits are something that can be established early on. Consider following some of these tips so that you and your child can begin to look forward to your next dental visit!
This article is largely based on an article written by Jane A. Sexton, DDS, professor at Oregon
Health Sciences University. This article does not constitute medical advice.
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