Tips to Help Your Child with Dental Fears

Beginning before their first birthday, your little one should visit a pediatric dentist every 6 months for a cleaning and checkup. Early dental care allows their dentist to monitor their developing smile for anything concerning. Research has also shown that routine dental appointments support a lifelong commitment to good oral hygiene. However, the dentist can be a frightening place for a child, despite having nothing to fear. Here’s how to promote tear-free dental appointments by helping your little one cope with their anxiety.

Common Causes of Dental Fears

Children can have anxiety about dental appointments for many reasons, like meeting new people, fear of the unknown, and even the sights, sounds, or smells of the office. It’s not unusual for young patients to have fears of needles, dental instruments, or pain. 

Coping with Dental-Related Fears

No matter the reason your child has dental-related anxiety, they can’t go without seeing their dentist. It’s important to choose a pediatric dentist that provides comfortable, compassionate care. 

You can help your little one prepare for their appointment by reading books or watching children’s shows about what they can expect in the dentist’s chair. They’ll have the chance to ask questions and discuss their worries before their appointment. Your little one will feel more relaxed and confident about their upcoming dental visit. 

Many dentists allow children to bring comfort items, like their favorite stuffed animal or blanket. This can help soothe them when they are nervous. You can also teach your child relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises. Always keep visiting the dentist a positive experience with encouragement and rewards. 

Consider Dental Sedation

If your child needs a little extra help to relax in the dentist’s chair, dental sedation can be an option. Contrary to what you might have heard, it is a safe solution. Nitrous oxide, better known as “laughing gas,” is the safest dental sedation. It will not render your little one unconscious and doesn’t have any lingering side effects.

Their dentist will place a mask over their nose to deliver the inhaled sedative. They can control the amount delivered to meet your child’s needs. As your child inhales, they will become relaxed and may get a small case of the giggles. Their extremities may feel heavy or tingle. After the mask is removed, they will feel completely normal within a matter of minutes. 

If your little one is scared of the dentist, speak with their dental team about their concerns. They’ll create a personalized plan to ensure they get the care they need while relaxing in the dentist’s chair.

About Dr. Robert Casey Stroud

Dr. Stroud earned his dental degree at Baylor College of Dentistry and has continued his education in pediatric dentistry. He is board-certified with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry and is a diplomate of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. Contact his office at (817) 441-2425 to schedule an appointment.