Dental Anxiety in Children

From a child’s point-of-view, a trip to the dentist can be frightening, especially if they aren’t sure what to expect.  If your child suffers from dental anxiety, this can be destructive to his or her oral health in the future. Here at Ardas Family Dental, it is our goal to make our pediatric patients as comfortable as possible during each visit. Allow us to explain how you as a parent can assist our doctors in keeping your child calm before and during the dental exam.

Before – In preparation for your child’s dental exam, talk to them about what to look forward to. You don’t need to go into too much detail, but children need predictability in their lives in order to adjust to unfamiliar situations. During this time, communicate with your child about his or her fears and discuss them as the dental appointment draws closer. Additionally, be sure to explain that they will have healthy teeth and gums once the appointment is over. 

During – Positive reinforcement is very effective during a dental visit. Applaud your child when they are being brave or tell them stories that will keep them pleasantly distracted.  We understand that it can be difficult to stay calm if your child is misbehaving, but be sure to remain patient with him or her.  Distractions are great for keeping your child’s mind off of the dental chair. You can also help them visualize a pleasant experience, or bring their favorite toy to help minimize their anxiety.

If you are searching for a pediatric dentist, look no further and give us a call. To learn more about services we provide at the practice, visit Pediatric Dentist Parker, CO for more information. To schedule an appointment with one of our doctors at Ardas Family Dental in Parker, CO, call 720-459-8420.