© Pressmaster - Dreamstime.com
The dentist tries to be a good friend and ally for oral health, but despite his best efforts, some kids remain fearful.
Dr. Nate Denson with Pediatric Dental Group and Orthodontics recommends seeing the dentist by the child’s first birthday, or six months after the first tooth comes in, to go over how to take care of teeth, good habits to start, and things to watch for — and to get them acquainted with the place and process.
The dental office should be seen as a positive, helpful environment. “Usually at the first visit we show the child around the office and encourage the positive parts of it, like checking out the toothbrush, getting to pick out stickers and toys, meeting the dentist, and making it a fun time,” Denson says.
Every child reacts differently. “If the child does well, we want to take a look at their teeth and clean them with the toothbrush. And if they are shy and nervous, we make it more of a happy visit where they meet everybody, see the different things, and end on a good note with a prize.”
The inquisitive child may enjoy reading a book about going to the dentist. Feel free to share a little bit about your child’s personality so the dentist can adapt the visit accordingly. “Some want to check everything out — like the stem brush, straw, and water gun — while others are more laid back and are content to check out the television,” says Denson.
The anxious child may appreciate when the dentist takes an interest in him. “Some kids need to be distracted a little bit, so we talk about pets they have, activities they like, or something to get their mind off of the visit so they are not worried.”
Information is power. Denson’s team makes sure to cover important things with parents: how and when to start brushing; how much toothpaste to use; how to manage if the kid is sucking his thumb, finger, or pacifier; and eating and drinking habits. Little actions can go a long way when it comes to dental health. “Make sure not to put your child to bed with a bottle, brush at nighttime and not just in the morning, and be careful of things like fruit snacks, which sound healthy but can be rough on teeth because they are sticky,” Denson says.
Consistency is key. For most, the dental visits are once every six months. This helps the child get used to the office and helps the dentist keep a close eye, so if something comes up or a cavity emerges, it will be caught early.
Pay attention to your own feelings about the dentist. “Nervousness can be transferred from parent to child, so parents play a crucial role in the early relationship with the dentist,” says Denson. “Make sure you are reflecting the dentist as a positive visit rather than something to be scared about.” Set an example and walk your child through the appointment by comforting and encouraging them as best you can.
Pediatric dentists appreciate the role they have in children’s growth and development, and Denson says it’s important to normalize going to the dentist during childhood because cavities are preventable. “The earlier we see kids, the more we can guide them and their parents to create good brushing and eating habits.”
It’s important to find a pediatric dentist you like and trust. “Pediatric offices are made for kids, where everything is on their level and feels like more of a fun place rather than a sterile, cold medical facility,” Denson says. If you have a child who is afraid of the dentist, sometimes finding the right one can ensure that the anxiety is not permanent.
“The most rewarding part is having the kid who is scared to go to the dentist and meeting them, walking through the appointment, and getting them to a point where they are not afraid to go,” says Denson. “We have a lot of kids who love coming to the dentist.”
Regardless of your child’s attitude toward the dental visit, it’s a good idea to set up regular cleanings and checkups for the entire family.
Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics.