Keeping Kids Calm During a Visit to the Dentist Visiting the dentist might not top the list of things your child wants to do. However, it is an important visit to help maintain proper oral health. Try a few tips and ideas to keep your child as calm as possible during the visit. There are also a few tricks that your dentist can usually use to keep children calm in the office. Start Young Begin taking your son or daughter to the dentist as soon as the first few teeth come in. Every visit helps kids develop a healthy relationship with the dentist. Also let the staff talk with your child. It’s a big step in building a comfortable rapport between everyone. Appointments should be scheduled for every six months. Play at Home Pretend that you're a dentist at home. Show your child what to expect at the appointment. Use a toothbrush to clean the teeth as well as a chair and a small mirror. This will give your child an idea of what to expect in the office before arriving. You can also count your child's teeth and put a small cloth on their chest just like the dentist does in the office. Help from The Dentist A pediatric dentist, instead of one who treats the entire family, is usually the best option for children. The office is typically decorated with fun characters and designs that they will enjoy. Sometimes there may be toys or a television in the office as well. Talk to your dentist about any fears your child is experiencing. Most pediatric dental offices have special tools to make kids feel comfortable. They might have masks and goggles as well as tools that have handles with characters on them. These can help kids feel like the office is a fun place to visit instead of a sterile doctor’s office for grown-ups. Talk About the Visit Tell your son or daughter what to expect at the office. Keep it age-appropriate. Don't use big words your child might not understand. And don’t talk about procedures in a way that is frightening. Let them know that the dentist wants them to have the best oral care. And to keep their teeth healthy. You should also talk about some of the things that might happen if your child doesn't take care of the teeth. But don't go into too much detail unless those issues arise. Remain Calm Even if your child is frightened about going to the dentist, you need to stay as calm as you can. Step away from the situation to gather your thoughts before returning. Most children will cry or
become agitated at the dentist. It’s important that you don't let them see you acting the same way. Praise your child for good behavior. However, don't scold for behavior that isn't exemplary. Instead, talk to your child about things that can be done better in the office or at home to protect their teeth.