Helping Your Child to Have a More Pleasant Visit to the Dentist
Taking your child to a dentist at least twice a year is part of any parent’s responsibilities. After all, regular dental checkups for kids can help them prevent gingivitis or tooth decay and cavities. If you’re among the millions of parents who've kids who are afraid of the dentist, you may struggle with the idea of dragging them there twice a year.
Use these tips to help you and your child have a more pleasant dental experience:
* Locate A Pediatric Dentist
Even if your whole family has seen the same dentist for twenty years, you may want to think about taking your fearful child to a pediatric dentist. It may be a little burdensome to not have the whole family with the same dental office but it could be very important to your child’s overall emotional health. Pediatric dentists are skilled in dental procedures plus equipped to handle any fearful child with ease.
* Don’t Wait To Take Your Child To The Dentist
Several times the kids who are most fearful of the dentist are those who weren’t taken to the dentist until a problem arose with their teeth. Should you do not want your kids to fear the dentist, be certain their first few visits are pleasant and not treatment oriented. Instead, schedule them for teeth cleanings or xrays to get them use to the idea of coming to the dentist on a positive note. Talk with your dentist about establishing these positive dental experiences with your child.
* Distract Your Child During Their Dental Visit
Your first instinct may be to force your child to leave their blanket or favorite stuffed toy at home while they visit the dentist but allowing them to bring these items with them might actually help distract them from being there in the first place. Older children who are fearful might like to listen to music through headphones while at the dentist, which can also be a great distraction method.
* Rewards For Great Dental Behavior Work
Setting up rewards for your children when they do well at the dentist is a great idea. If they behave properly, allow them to rent a movie, have extra television time or invite a friend over for a play date. Younger kids are often rewarded at the actual dental office with a toy from the treasure box but older kids might not be interested. Instead, strike a deal beforehand with an older child to see what might entice them to be brave!
* What About Dental Sedation For Kids?
The issue of regardless of whether dental sedation should be used on fearful kids is totally up to the child’s parents. Most dentists are comfortable using things like nitrous oxide on their younger patients to help them relax during dental procedures but others will provide more extreme sedation options to parents of very fearful children.
About the Author
Offering kids dental care in Gresham and orthodontics to families throughout the Portland metro area. Dr. Mark Mutschler and his staff will provide information on the practice, orthodontic and pediatric dental care needs.
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