As you can imagine, visits to the dentist can cause your child to become anxious. If you look back to when you were a child, dentist visits were probably not on your list of fond memories.
When the time comes to make an appointment with your McAllen pediatric dentist, we understand your child may not be thrilled about coming in — and they may actually be afraid. However, it’s important to recognize that this is completely normal for most children, and that there are a few things you can do to help calm your child’s nerves before a trip to the dentist.
Prep Your Child for Their Dentist Visit in Three Steps
These are a few strategies we suggest you go through before your little one’s appointment. This will help prepare your child for what’s to come and they know what to expect during their visit. This way there are no surprises and, hopefully, less nervousness.
1. Walk them through the process.
The fewer surprises, the more comfortable your child will become with dentist appointments. Talk to your child in detail about what the process will be like during their visit. Inform them about the funny tastes and smells they may experience and all the fancy dental equipment they will see.
The more they know about their dental appointment, the more confident they will feel visiting the dentist.
2. Remind them why visits to their McAllen pediatric dentist are important.
Explain to your child why having good dental hygiene is important for their overall health. Having poor oral hygiene may not only cause low self-esteem, but it can cause health problems as well.
3. Keep their dentist in the loop.
If your child is anxious about their upcoming visit to the dentist, let the dentist know about your child’s worries. Pediatric dentists know how to handle a nervous child; your McAllen pediatric dentist will have your kid feeling like a Little Hero.
Three Ways to Comfort Your Child and Calm Their Anxiety During Dental Appointments
So now that you’ve prepared your child on what to expect at their dental visit, it’s time to get through the appointment like a champion. Here are a few tips on how to help your child remain calm during their visit.
1. Distract them.
Bring along their favorite toy or a device to keep them entertained and not focused on their nerves. During the appointment, you can use a phone or device to play music or videos they enjoy to comfort them.
2. Stay positive.
It is important to encourage your child and reassure them that everything will go smoothly. Refrain from describing pain, discomfort, or the possibility of getting injections administered.
Focus on the outcome and how much better they will feel inside and out after their visit.
3. Commend their good behavior.
Let your child know how good they are doing during their appointment. If possible, you may offer them an award for their good merits. Just remember to stay away from sugary treats!
McAllen Pediatric Dentist Strive To Make Your Child’s Experience Comfortable and Worry-Free
We know how much a dentist appointment can cause concern in children. Your McAllen pediatric dentists will not only help ease your child’s nerves but show you how you can help them stay calm and be the Little Heroes they are capable of being.