In the world of pediatric dentistry, dentists are used to children having anxiety over dental visits. People of all ages can experience this, but it can be particularly difficult for young children. Thankfully, there are some things that can be done to help reduce or eliminate these nerves.
There are multiple tactics that can be tried to reduce anxiety in children during dental visits. Whether it is for a simple cleaning or a more complex procedure, these techniques can help make a difference.
Children are more likely to experience nervousness when they are caught off guard. Let them know a day or two ahead of time about the dentist appointment. However, telling them too far in advance can give the child time to worry about what can go wrong. Giving them a little notice is helpful, but do not tell them soon enough to give them too long to dwell on it.
Children are bound to have a lot of questions about the upcoming dental visit. A pediatric dentist can answer any questions the child may have, but it can be helpful for parents to give some idea of what to expect ahead of time. Parents should answer questions but not discuss anything that they do not know the facts about. Giving simple answers is better to avoid misunderstandings.
Some parents may recall a bad experience during one of their own dental visits, and this could be a source of anxiety for them. According to WebMD, it is important to avoid telling children about such bad experiences. Children will likely worry that will happen to them, which may make them more resistant to going. Keep any related stories short and simple, and do not tell any that do not have a happy ending.
Typically, the more a child goes to the dentist, the lower anxieties over the experience will be. Try to remember to take the child to regular dental visits, which typically should be once every six months. The dentist may recommend more frequent visits if there is a dental issue that should be monitored more closely.
According to the Journal of Medical Internet Research, children who do not go to the dentist regularly are more likely to have dental anxiety. In addition, less frequent dental visits can increase the risk of dental complications, which could require a more uncomfortable appointment. This may in turn intensify the negative association with the dentist.
When a child is being uncooperative during a visit to the pediatric dentistry, it can be hard to remain calm. Raising your voice or threatening will likely only exacerbate a kid's anxiety. When feeling anxious or upset with a child's negative behavior, take a deep breath and try not to respond in anger or frustration.
When children experience anxiety at a pediatric dentistry, this can make appointments difficult. Following these tips can help relieve some of that uneasiness and help set them up for more cooperative and stress-free visits.
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