For children to enjoy healthy smiles for life, regular dental exams are a must. However, many kids have fears about the dentist, which makes undergoing checkups and cleanings far more difficult. That’s why parents should take the following steps to soothe their kids and create a positive image of dental care.

How to Alleviate Your Child’s Anxiety Regarding a Dental Exam

1. Schedule the First Exam Early

It’s recommended that your child’s first checkup should occur by the first birthday or at the first eruption of a tooth. This is important for your child’s dental health, but it’s also a good way to get them used to the idea of dental checkups while they’re still young. Waiting too long will only increase anxiety, as well as discourage good oral habits in the future.

2. Use Positive Language

When talking about the dentist, stay away from words like pain, hurt, and shot, which give a bad impression to kids. Instead, talk about the positive aspects of the experience. Let your child know that dental care is important to their overall health and that the dentist is here to help them have a healthy and happy smile. Also, don’t bribe your child into behaving at the dentist. While bribing a child with treats and toys might be effective, it can also send a poor message.

3. Let Them Know What to Expect

You can also discuss what will happen during the exam. Don’t feel the need to give too many details, especially if your child is very young. You can also visit the office before the exam so your child will be able to meet the staff and look at the equipment. This will demystify the experience and reduce stress.

Dr. Rachel E. Gold and the rest of the team at Rachel E Gold D.M.D. - Total Health Dentistry strive to create a calm and soothing environment for all pediatric patients. She also emphasizes the link between good dental care and overall health, which is why she urges parents to schedule dental exams for their children as early as possible. Along with checkups, this clinic also provides tooth fillings, removal of wisdom teeth, dental crowns, implants, and cosmetic treatments like veneers. Schedule an appointment for you or a loved one in Cold Spring, KY by calling (859) 441-1230. You can also visit her website for more dental care tips.