What If My Child Is Anxious About the Dentist? Steps You Can Take To Help

Dental anxiety is very common in kids. Whether your child is visiting the dentist for the first time, or they have seen dentists before but are a bit nervous and anxious about the process, the team at Arctic Dental is here to help with a few simple steps you can take to reduce dental anxiety in kids.

1. Talk To Your Child About The Dentist Using Positive Language

It’s very important to avoid using negative language to talk about the dentist, and to maintain a positive attitude toward going to the dentist. 

If you use words like “hurt,” “shot,” or anything else that may be scary for a kid, they’ll be even more anxious. And, similarly, if you show that you’re feeling anxious or nervous about taking your child to see the dentist, they’ll sense that, and they’ll feel nervous, too.

Describe the dentist using positive terms. Let your child know that the dentist will take great care of their mouth and make sure their teeth are healthy. 

You don’t have to be too specific about what will happen during their appointment, either. Your pediatric dentist will take care of that for you, and can answer your child’s questions in a child-friendly, informative way. 

2. Find A Dentist That’s Right For Your Child 

Working with a friendly pediatric dentist is very important for kids who may be nervous about seeing the dentist, particularly children who may have had a negative experience with a dentist in the past. 

You should take the time to find a pediatric dentist in Muscatine who will provide patient, caring dentistry. The pediatric dental care your child receives can affect their outlook on dentistry for the rest of their lives, so it’s very important to find a dentist that your child likes, and who is willing to develop a real relationship with your child and the rest of your family. 

3. Consider Sedation Options Like Laughing Gas 

Sedation with laughing gas (nitrous oxide) is minimal and reduces feelings of anxiety in your child while allowing them to remain fully alert and conscious during their procedure. They will be able to relax and feel more comfortable, because they will know that they won’t feel any discomfort or pain. 

Almost every child can be sedated with laughing gas at Arctic Dental as long as they are healthy, so feel free to ask about sedation when you schedule your appointment at our office in Muscatine to see if it’s right for your little one.

Need Help With An Anxious Child? Come To Arctic Dental Today! 

At Arctic Dental, Dr. Jarod provides child-focused, warm, and comforting dental care in Muscatine. As a board-certified pediatric dentist, he will learn more about your child and what scares them about dentistry, and use modern behavior management techniques and sedation to ensure they have a safe, anxiety-free experience.

So don’t wait. If your child needs dental care but is anxious about seeing the dentist, contact Arctic Dental online or give us a call at 563-607-5979 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Jarod, and get the help they need in Muscatine.