Here at My Village Pediatric Dentistry, we work hard to make every patient feel comfortable in our office, and over the years we've developed the knowledge and experience to make a visit at our office a pleasant experience for just about everyone. Even so, many children still experience anxiety about going to the dentist's office - and that's totally ok. As a parent, though, it can be hard to know how to quell your child's fears. In case you're in that boat, here are a few tips for helping to ease your child's fear of the dentist.
Talk Openly - And Listen Attentively
This may seem obvious, but it's undoubtedly the most powerful tool you have for helping your child overcome anxieties around the dentist. If you think your child may be feeling fearful, encourage them to talk openly with you about their feelings. Even more importantly, when they do open up, be sure to listen attentively with a nonjudgmental ear. If they feel like they've been heard, they'll feel supported and will be more open to working through their fears of the office.
Create a Comfortable Environment
Often, part of the fear children have around the dentist's office lies in the fact that it's a new and often unfamiliar place. They find themselves in a new situation with unfamiliar surroundings where they're unsure of the rules or what will happen next - so it makes sense that they'd get a little nervous! To counteract this, try bringing along some of your child's favorite toys or possessions. A favorite stuffed animal, trusted blanket, or even a familiar joke can go a long way towards easing a child's anxiety.
Contact Your Pediatric Dentist
Have more questions about helping your child get used to the dentist, or want to schedule your next appointment? We're always here to help. Please feel free to contact us at either of our office locations in Rogers or Bentonville. We can't wait to hear from you, and we look forward to seeing you back at this blog for more tips and information on your and your child's dental health.