For many people visiting the dentist is a source of great anxiety. This particularly true for children who may not understand what to expect and are nervous about new experiences. This does not mean, Guest Posting though, that the dentist should be avoided. Even nervous children need to understand the importance of regularly visiting a dentist in St. Paul MN and maintaining good oral hygiene. With a little bit of work beforehand and some gentle reassurance while visiting the dentist in Winchester VA, children can be taught to be more comfortable and not dread dental care.
Possibly the most important factor in helping children not to be afraid of the dentist is to keep calm yourself. Never let your child hear you speak about going to the dentist like it is a terrible event. Try to speak positively about your experiences and keep uncomfortable experiences to yourself. Your attitude has a huge impact on how your child is going to feel. When speaking to your child about what to expect at the dentist avoid using words like “shot” or “pain.” It is important to help your child understand what will happen at dental visits but keep details to a minimum.
It may also be a good idea to role play what visiting a dentist in St. Paul MN may be like. Let your child take turns pretending to be both a patient and the dentist. Find pretend cleaning tools and show the child what he or she will have to do. Let your child practice opening their mouth and holding it open while you “clean” his or her teeth.
If possible, take your child along with you to a regular dental appointment. Actually experiencing what a dentist’s office looks like, what the dentist and the staff look like, and how the procedures are performed may be all it takes to resolve a great deal of anxiety. If possible, have the dentist speak with your child for a moment so that your child can become more familiar and comfortable with the dentist. If your dentist seems uncomfortable interacting with your child, consider a new dentist.
Finally, when the day arrives for your child’s first dental appointment, try to schedule it in the morning. Children tend to be more cooperative and better rested at earlier appointments. Let you child bring along a favorite security toy or stuffed animal to hold while sitting in the dentist’s chair. Reassure your child that you will stay with them and that they do not have to sit in the chair alone. Once you have helped the child have one positive experience with a dentist in St. Paul MN subsequent visits should be much easier.