Visiting the dentist is often an unpleasant and sometimes even intimidating experience for adults. So, it is entirely understandable that kids have a fear of dentists. It is a normal fear stemming from the unknown, strangers looking into their mouths, and all the tools and equipment lying around. However, when kids see you at the dentist, and after their first visit, they see it’s no big deal. It is quintessential, though, that the first and a few first visits are comfortable, fun and pain-free so that kids would develop positive feelings about a dentist’s office. Keep reading to learn more about how to help your kids overcome their fear of dentists.

One of the first things you should do is introduce your kids to the dentist at an early age. The next essential thing to remember is to go to the pediatric dentist - a dentist specialising in kids’ dentistry. Additionally, you should promote oral health importance at home. Also, you should be a good role model for maintaining oral health. To prepare kids even better for their first visit, you should read books and watch videos about dentist visits. Lastly, you should give your kids positive reinforcements.

1. Introduce your kids to the dentist at an early age

The concept of a dentist is entirely unfamiliar to kids. The best age to introduce them to this vital concept is very early, even when there is no actual need for a dentist visit. You should do it slowly, in a pain-free motion. For example, their first visit to the dentist should be when you go for a regular check-up. Then, kids can see how it looks and familiarise themselves with the dentist’s office. They will see it’s no big deal, and next time, they can go for their first visit to a pediatric dentist. The first few visits should be more about getting to know the dentist, the office and the whole process. It is how kids form positive opinions and attitudes about dental health.

2. Go to a pediatric dentist

The next thing to be considered is choosing the right pediatric dentist. It is crucial to choose a suitable kids’ dentist as they specialise in kids’ oral health, and they know the best ways to approach different types of kids. There are numerous advantages to visiting a paediatrician in the tooth world. They are the ones who can communicate with their youngest patients effectively as they learn kids’ psychology besides their additional training specialising in kids’ oral health. Pediatric dentists often resort to different strategies and techniques, such as tell-show-do, where they first tell kids what they will do, show it and then do it. They also use distractions in the form of stories and TV and rewards for good behaviour.

3. Promote oral health importance

Promoting oral health importance at home is crucial, as this is where kids acquire and develop lifelong habits. So, this is a part of your parent's job you mustn’t overlook. It would be good to discuss the role of teeth and gums, why caring for teeth is essential, and how dentists can help achieve a beautiful smile. Explain how teeth help with chewing and speaking and that the habits they develop will follow them through life—understanding the why behind something can make kids less afraid. The key to a beautiful white smile is regularly visiting a dentist. And then show them by your example, by visiting the dentist regularly. Read more about parents being the most important role models.

4. Be a role model

Being a good role model and showing how you care for your teeth and have a beautiful smile goes a long way for kids. Always be optimistic about the dentist's visits (even though you don’t like them and they can be uncomfortable). Try not to show negative feelings and comment negatively about your visits. For many people, dealing with root canals can be highly unpleasant. However, you mustn’t show your apprehension in front of your child. Try to seem relaxed and happy when going to your dentist appointment. I know, I know - sometimes we simply have to fake these things for the sake of our kids.

5. Read books and watch videos

Another great way to prepare for the dentist’s office is by reading books and watching videos about kids visiting dentists. This is a good way to prepare them for what to expect. Also, they feel at ease when they see other kids at their appointments, and them being obedient and still. They can see it doesn’t hurt and that everybody goes through that. You can buy some books or even rent from the library. Find some interesting and highly visual ones. There are also various interactive games you can go for and plenty of other similar activities.

Kids are very sensitive, so we must be cautious when introducing them to new concepts. These tips will lay a good foundation for your kids to develop positive attitudes towards dentists and oral health.