Helping Your Child Enjoy The Dentist, Even If You Don’t

Dental anxiety is a common problem that keeps many adults from seeing their oral healthcare providers on a regular basis. Parents who feel anxious about dental appointments face a unique challenge. They understand that dental care is important for their children, and they need to help their children enjoy pediatric dental services. Here are some tips for parents with dental anxiety.

Tip #1: Focus on the Benefits

For the first few appointments, your child may not understand the importance of going to the dentist. Explaining to children that dentists help them heave a healthy and beautiful smile is a great way to engage younger patients. You can also explain that the dentist explains how to take better care of their teeth.

Tip #2: Be Enthusiastic

As parents, you know that if you are excited about a special event, your child feels enthusiastic as well. Going to the dentist should be this type of experience. The day before the appointment, ask your child what is exciting about going to the dentist. The morning of the appointment, maintain that optimistic perspective.

Tip #3: Celebrate the Appointment

Schedule the appointment at a time when you can take an hour or two after the appointment to do something special. You may want to go to the park, see a movie or visit a local botanical garden. This helps your child understand that going to the dentist is a time to celebrate.

Tip #4: Engage Your Dentist and Hygienist

If your child has concerns about dental appointments, let us know. We understand how to answer their questions so that they feel more at ease. We can also provide you with information about ways that you can encourage good oral health at home.

Learn More About Dental Care for Your Children. Contact Montefiore Dental.

To learn more about dental care for children and teenagers, as well as treatments for missing teeth, bleeding gums, and other oral health conditions, contact Montefiore Dental to schedule an appointment. You can also contact Montefiore Medical Center in Bronx, New York, at (888) 700-6623.