Fear of dentists is a common part of childhood and is quite normal with most children. Children often do not understand what is going on or why they are exposed to all these people in masks and metal instruments. At that moment, everything around them is strange. Too bright room, instruments for hygiene and dental repair, and strangers in their immediate vicinity.
This fear is completely understandable, but it is important to calm it down early in life. Children who are afraid of dentists can grow into adults with dentophobia.
Several factors can lead to your child’s anxiety
- Sight or feeling of dental instruments
- Fear of pain or a history of painful experience
- Unattractive dental ambience
- Repetitive thoughts
- Emotions about possible threats
- Family relationships
- Raising children
- Inadequate preparation for the first visit to the dentist
- Socioeconomic factors
Many of these factors can be transformed into a more positive light when parents and dentists work together with children. It is important to help these children adjust and learn that the dental chair is a stepping stone to oral health and comfort.
Start at a young age
The best time to take your child to the dentist is around his first birthday or when his first teeth are seen. Then we recommend that you come every 6 months to build your child’s comfort and confidence level by visiting the dentist.
Use positive and encouraging words
When your child inevitably asks questions about the dentist, make sure you answer them in simple, positive language. Avoid warning them of things like pain because they could focus only on it, and develop fear.
Lead by example
You cannot expect your child to be brave if you are afraid of the dentist yourself. Take your child with you to your own teeth cleaning. When your child just sees that there is no pain or threat, they will lose some of their fear of the dentist. Show them that the dentist is a friend and that it is important that the teeth are strong and healthy.
When your child feels comfortable, he can lower his guard and his fear will melt away.
Toothache can sometimes be difficult to determine. Check HERE to learn more.
