Dentistry For Children: Helping Kids Overcome Their Fear Of Dentists

The Australian Orthodontic Journal has proposed that every child needs a dental evaluation once he/ she reaches age 7. However, from the point of view of the child, any trip to the dentist could become a very scary experience, lying on a weird chair in some unfamiliar room that is packed with strange objects and unfamiliar noises. All this whilst a complete stranger is busy poking unusual, metallic and cold instruments in their mouth.

In a study published in Australian Journal of Rural Health that covered clinical oral health of rural Australian children, it emerged that many children would rather endure the discomfort and some mild levels of pain, rather than admit it their status to their parents, for fear of being taken to see a dentist.

To assist in easing the visits for your kid, follow these suggested steps so that the child will feel more relaxed.

1. Start Young And Keep It Simple

The earlier your kid visits the dentist's clinic, the better. When you're preparing for a visit, particularly for the first time, try and avoid too many details as doing so will only raise more questions which you may not be well placed to handle. For instance, adding additional information on a treatment such as a filling may cause more unnecessary anxiety. Maintain a positive attitude, but don't give the child any false hope or lie!

2. Carefully Watch Your Words

Avoid using words like "shot" or "hurt" with children. Allow the professionals to introduce their own suitable vocabulary to help the kids get through those potentially difficult situations. Instead use positive phrases such as "strong, clean or healthy teeth" to make the impeding visit appear fun rather than alarming and scary.

3. Consider A Mock Visit

Ahead of the initial appointment, play pretend or mock visit to the dentist with your child. All you'll require is a simple toothbrush. Avoid lining up the other dentist's "instruments" or making those alarming drilling noises. You even could hold up a mirror and show your child how the dentist might check their teeth. Then allow the child role-play using a baby toothbrush to clean a doll or stuffed animal's teeth. The important thing is to get the kid familiar with the dentist routine so that he or she becomes more comfortable during the real visit.

4. Avoid Bribing The Child

Experts don't recommend promising your kid any special treat if they behave well or don't cry when at the dentist as this will only increase their levels of apprehension. Your child may become just apprehensive thinking about what could be so bad at the dentist's that would make him or her want to cry! The International Journal of Orthodontia and Dentistry for Children in its Volume 21, Issue 12 cautions that to promise a sugary treat to your kid also sends a wrong message after the dentist has been emphasizing having healthy and clean teeth through avoiding sweets that could cause growth of cavities!

5. Give More Emphasis To The Significance Of High-Quality Oral Hygiene

Teach your kid that a visit to the dentist is a requirement, not an option. That the dentist is going to take care of their teeth so that they remain strong enough for eating and for that beautiful smile.


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William works in the children's dental department of Be Well Dental. He will hold your child's hand through the entire process of treatment. His strong rapport with kids will give your child the confidence needed for the dental appointment at Be Well Denta, visit http://www.bewelldental.com.au/service/dentistry-for-children/ .