Helping your Child Overcome their Fear of the Dentist

For any child going to the doctor can be scary. This includes going to the dentist. The dentists at Roger’s Center for Dentistry in Spanish Fork can help your child to feel at ease and comfortable during their dental cleaning and check-up. We have gathered some tips you can try to help them be prepared for their appointment and to overcome their fear of going to the dentist.

Start Young

It is recommended that your child begins seeing a dentist at the age of 1 or 6 months after their first tooth comes in. Getting them in the routine of going to their dentist will make it so they aren’t scared and they know what to expect as they get older.

Be Positive

Before taking your child to the dentist you will want to make sure you don’t scare them with any unnecessary details. Keep it simple and let them know they are going in to see their friendly dentist. Try and encourage them and let them know how good it is for them to get their teeth cleaned so they can have a healthy smile. Rewarding them after a visit to the dentist can also help.

Watch what you Say

Words like shot or pain can scare your child. Instead of using these harsh words your dentist will come up with more friendly and less scary words to describe certain procedures to your child. Try and describe the dental experience is a light and fun way like a fairytale story book.

Role Play

To help you child even further you may want to play dentist at home. Role playing what will happen can help your child to feel at ease and know what to expect when they get to the dentist. Make it a fun and enjoyable play time for you both as you pretend to clean their teeth.

Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a scary experience for your child. With the steps listed above you can help you child in having a good time at Roger’s Center for Dentistry in Spanish Fork. Our dentists have the experience with children you need to feel at ease when it comes time for their cleaning. Call our office today to schedule their first appointment.