It's natural for children to experience a bit of trepidation about visiting the dentist. However, parents must instill in their kids the importance of proper dental care, which includes twice-yearly cleanings and exams. Most children find that dental visits are not scary at all when they have the right information. As a result, parents are encouraged to share the following with their kids before a visit takes place. 

How to Soothe Your Child's Anxiety About the Dentist

1. Discuss the Upcoming Visit

Simply talking about the visit may be enough to assuage your child's anxiety about the experience. Briefly explain what's going to happen during the visit, but don't feel the need to go into too much detail about specific tools and procedures. You can also use child-friendly books and TV shows about the dentist to illustrate the concept to your child. Kids are often more open to the process when it's discussed in terms they understand. 

2. Explain the Many Benefits of Dental Care

Children may fail to understand just how important dental care is to their health. Explain that dental visits are integral for keeping cavities and gum disease at bay. They will also help your child maintain a bright and happy smile, especially when they're also diligent about at-home care. By emphasizing the positives, you will show your child just how beneficial regular dental visits truly are. 

3. Schedule a Pre-Exam Visit

Many children are afraid of the dentist because they don't know what to expect. A pre-exam visit will get them acquainted with the office and staff, which can alleviate a lot of stress and anxiety. It also provides your child with the opportunity to ask about what will happen on the day of the exam. Quality dental teams know how to talk to young patients and will explain the different aspects of the exam using simple and easy-to-understand language. 

When seeking a reliable dentist to provide pediatric care, trust Gregory E. Utecht, DDS. As a member of the Nebraska Dental Association and the American Dental Association, this clinic proudly provides quality service to patients of all ages. Along with preventative care, they also offer restorative treatments like dental implants, crowns, and more. Visit the website to learn more about their dental services. You can also schedule an appointment in Lincoln, NE, by calling (402) 477-3456.