Kids and Dental Visits

Taking your child to the dentist can sometimes feel like a daunting task. For many kids, a trip to the dentist may be met with fear or anxiety, which can make the experience stressful for both the child and the parent. However, with a little preparation and the right approach, dental visits can become an enjoyable and positive experience. By teaching your child what to expect in a fun and reassuring way, you can help set the stage for a lifetime of good oral health habits.

In this post, we’ll share some tips and creative ideas for parents on how to prepare children for their dental visits and make the process easier and even fun!

The best way to set your child up for success is to start dental visits early. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children see a dentist by their first birthday or within six months of getting their first tooth. Starting dental visits early helps familiarize your child with the office environment and allows the dentist to identify any potential issues before they become bigger problems.

By making dental care part of your child’s routine from the beginning, they’ll grow up seeing it as just another regular health check-up, like going to the pediatrician. The earlier you establish this positive habit, the more comfortable they will be with dental visits as they get older.

One of the best ways to prepare your child for their dental visit is by having a positive conversation. Instead of focusing on potential fears or worries, talk about the dentist in a fun, upbeat way. Use playful language and focus on the cool aspects of the visit.

For example, you could say things like:

• “The dentist is like a superhero for your teeth! They make sure your teeth are strong and healthy.”

• “The dentist will give you a special shiny toothbrush to keep your teeth sparkling clean.”

• “The dentist’s chair is super cool – it goes up and down like a spaceship!”

By turning the visit into a fun adventure, you’ll help your child feel excited instead of anxious.

There are many children's books and videos that explain what happens at the dentist in a fun and child-friendly way. These resources can help your child visualize the experience and make it seem less intimidating. Look for books that feature characters going to the dentist, or even animated videos that walk through the process.

Some popular books include:

• "The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist" by Stan and Jan Berenstain

• "Just Going to the Dentist" by Mercer Mayer

• "Sesame Street: Big Bird Visits the Dentist"

These stories often include positive messages about keeping teeth clean and healthy, while also reassuring children that there’s nothing to be afraid of.

Before the big day, engage in some pretend play at home to help your child get comfortable with the idea of a dental exam. Take turns playing dentist and patient with stuffed animals, dolls, or even with each other. Pretend to brush their “teeth,” use a toy mirror, or count the “teeth” with a toothbrush.

This playful approach can make the concept of a dental visit feel more familiar and less intimidating. Plus, your child will be more likely to feel confident about sitting in the dentist’s chair if they’ve already “practiced” the experience in a fun, low-pressure way.

Children are keen observers, and they often pick up on their parents’ emotions. If you’re nervous or anxious about dental visits, your child may start to feel the same way. That’s why it’s important for parents to model a calm, positive attitude.

Stay relaxed and cheerful during the visit. Talk about how easy and fun the visit is going to be. If your child sees that you’re comfortable and confident, they’re more likely to feel the same way.

Try not to use words that could make your child anxious, such as “needle,” “shot,” or “hurt.” Even seemingly harmless words like “drill” or “pain” could make a child associate the dentist with discomfort or fear. Instead, use terms that are friendly and reassuring, such as:

• “The dentist will help you make your teeth super strong!”

• “The dentist will clean your teeth and make them sparkle.”

• “The chair will move up and down like a fun ride!”

If your child has had dental visits in the past, avoid bringing up anything negative that may have happened previously. Focusing on the positive aspects of the visit can go a long way toward creating a more pleasant experience.

Rewarding your child for being brave at the dentist can help reinforce positive behavior and build excitement for future visits. You could offer a small reward, like a sticker, a special snack, or extra playtime. Some dental offices even give out fun prizes to children after their visits!

It’s important to remember that the reward isn’t just about bribing your child – it’s about celebrating their courage and reinforcing the idea that dental visits are a positive experience.

While it’s important to keep the conversation light and fun, it’s also essential to be honest with your child about what to expect. If your child is old enough, explain that the dentist will look at their teeth and may clean them. Reassure them that the dentist is there to help them, and if anything feels uncomfortable, they can always let the dentist know.

Being honest while offering reassurance helps your child understand that dental visits are not something to fear, but rather a way to keep their teeth and gums healthy.

If your child is particularly nervous about dental visits, you may want to consider a pediatric dentist. Pediatric dentists are specialists who have additional training in working with children and are skilled in making young patients feel comfortable and relaxed.

Many pediatric dental offices are designed to feel welcoming and child-friendly, with colorful decor, kid-sized chairs, and even play areas to make the visit more fun. Additionally, pediatric dentists are typically very patient and understanding of children’s needs, which can help ease any anxieties your child may have.

Turning Dental Visits into a Positive Experience

With the right preparation and mindset, you can help your child develop a positive attitude toward dental visits that will last a lifetime. By making the experience fun, engaging, and stress-free, you’ll help your child build good dental habits and a healthy relationship with their dentist.

Remember, the goal is to create an experience that leaves your child feeling empowered, confident, and excited about taking care of their teeth. And when they associate dental visits with fun and positivity, they’re much more likely to continue practicing excellent oral hygiene as they grow older.

So, the next time your child has a dental visit, remember to keep things light, calm, and positive—and watch as they grow into a lifelong fan of oral health!