Grimsby Smiles Dentistry - Blog

Learning About Children's Dental Anxiety

Having worked as a family dentist in the Grimsby community for many years, I have seen firsthand how dental anxiety affects children. Most children are nervous about going to the dentist, which is understandable. But with gentle management, your family dentist can transform such fears into a pleasant visit.

Children tend to pick up dental anxiety from numerous places. Sometimes, it is due to a past negative experience. Sometimes, it is due to hearing bad news from family and friends. Moreover, fear of the unknown makes a significant contribution to building up anxiety.

How Your Family Dentist Creates a Welcoming Environment

At Grimsby Smiles Dentistry, we believe that environment is extremely significant. Our office is actually designed to be welcoming to children of all ages. Bright, cheerful colors and a kid-friendly waiting area make a positive impression from the very beginning.

I remember little Emma, who was scared on her first visit. She clung to her teddy bear until she spotted our colorful playroom. When we said her name, she was actively playing with toys and considerably more relaxed. This transformation takes place on a daily basis in our practice.

Communication Techniques Your Family Dentist Uses

Clear communication is the basis of managing anxiety. At your family dentist, we employ terms that are suited to the patient's age in describing treatments. For example, rather than "drill," we call it a "tooth tickler." The "suction" is a "super straw" as well.

"Can I show you how Mr. Thirsty dries your mouth?" This question empowers kids and makes the experience enjoyable. When kids understand what is happening, their fear will lessen by leaps and bounds.

The Power of Positive Reinforcement

Kids respond extremely positively to praise and reward. Your family dentist will have to notice every success, however small. Being successful at sitting in the dental chair needs to be noted, as well as a full examination.

In our office, we maintain a treasure chest full of little prizes to take home after a visit. In addition, we reward strong behavior in the visit with verbal praise, so children begin to associate dental visits with good things and not bad things.

Involving Parents in the Dental Experience

Parents play an important role when it comes to dental anxiety. Your family dentist should treat you as a partner in your child's oral process. We ask parents to speak positively about visits to the dentist at home.

I asked one mother if she had modified her message and she said that she had changed from "You have to go to the dentist" to "We get to see Dr. Sarah today!" This subtle change in wording made a huge impact on her son's attitude about visits.

Advanced Techniques for Severe Dental Anxiety

For children who have a higher level of anxiety, your family dentist has other alternatives. Distraction techniques such as ceiling-mounted television or the option to hear music can be employed to distract from procedures.

I won't forget young Lucas, who arrived weeping for his filling. After we watched his favorite cartoon and special glasses, his entire demeanor changed. By the end of the appointment, he was inquiring as to when he could come back!

Your family dentist's long-term goal is to create good oral habits that will last your child's lifetime. Being a positive, frequent visitor to the dentist as a child establishes habits that are carried throughout a lifetime. Therefore, each visit is an opportunity to build confidence.

We also focus on preventive care and education with each visit. Teaching children how to brush and the importance of healthy eating empowers them to take control of their oral health.

Book Your Child's Appointment with Our Family Dentist

At Grimsby Smiles Dentistry, we're committed to delivering fun dental experiences for children of all ages. Our family dentist team is aware of the unique needs of pediatric patients and goes out of its way to overcome fear of the dentist.

Book your child's appointment now at (289) 235-9117. Our office at 264 Main St. E in Grimsby welcomes your family with kindness and compassion.