5 Tips to Help Your Kids Overcome Their Fear of the Dentist

What child LIKES going to the dentist? While the thought of visiting a dentist might be scary to a child, there are things you can do to help your children overcome their fear of the dentist. In honor of February being National Children's Dental Health Month, our health clinics at the Lake of the Ozarks are here to give you a few tips to try when you're helping your kids get over their fear of the dentist.

5 Tips to Try When Helping Your Kids Overcome Their Fear of Dentists

Tip # 1
Role-play with your child as if you are a dentist.
Pretend like you have a dentist's office in the comfort of your own home and act like you are your child's dentist. Show your kids how the dentist really isn't that bad by going through a routine check-up. Count their teeth and try holding up a mirror and showing them their teeth. You'll obviously want to avoid making drill noises. The point here is to make a dentist office visit sound fun rather than scary.

Tip # 2
Set a good example.
If you have a fear of going to the dentist, then your kid's are probably going to have a fear as well. Set a good example by going to your regular check-ups and pointing out the positive advantages to going on a regular basis, such as having a better chance at cavity prevention or tooth decay.

Tip # 3
Use the power of distraction.
Ask the dentist if you can go back with your child. This way you can talk to your child and distract them while the dentist may be reaching for a "scary-looking" instrument.

Tip # 4
Start taking your kids to the dentist at a young age.
The earlier you start taking your kids to the dentist, the better. Taking your child to the dentist earlier on in life gives them more time to get used to the cleanings and regular check-ups.

Tip # 5
Be mindful of older siblings telling "scary" dentist stories.
Your youngest child could be having a harder time adjusting to the idea of going to the dentist if their older siblings are constantly trying to scare them with made up stories. Be mindful of this and put a stop to it as soon as you can. You don't want your youngest child to feel even more intimidated.

Is Your Child Ready for His or Her First Dental Appointment?

Our Richland Dental Center offers family dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and dentures/restorative services. We can understand how frightened a child may be and our oral health providers in Richland are dedicated to bringing more bright smiles to our community. If you would like to schedule an appointment, please call 573.765.2510.


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