Overcoming Dentist Fear

Many children are afraid to go to the dentist. It is an unfamiliar space and can be uncomfortable for young children. Taking your child to the dentist is mandatory to maintain proper oral hygiene. From your child's perspective, they are in a chair where they have no control and are surrounded by foreign tools and noises. To help decrease your child's anxiety level so that he or she is comfortable there are a few steps parents can take.

First off, bringing your child to the dentist at a young age is beneficial for their oral health and experience. Your child will meet the dentist, take a ride in the chair, and familiarize themselves with the office. At Woodbridge Kids Dentistry we recommend your child comes for their first visit within six months of their first tooth coming in or close to their first birthday.

Secondly, when you are talking to your child about attending the dentist use simple terms. Do not include too many details as you do not need to cause unnecessary stress or anxiety for your child.

Thirdly, be honest with your child and maintain a positive demeanor. You should also watch your vocabulary when discussing the dentist with your child. Avoiding words like pain, needles, and bleeding will scare children. At Woodbridge we also recommend that your child attend with an older brother or sister to show them how it's done. Having a role model there helps your child to know they can do it too!

At Woodbridge we are dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable atmosphere for your child. For more information regarding your child's first visit at Woodbridge Kids click here.