Tips For Managing Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is real – we’re here to help!
Tips For Children With Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety in children (and adults) is very real. It’s essential to see a dentist regularly to check for signs of potential problems and get them fixed right away. Avoiding dental problems due to anxiety will only cause them to get bigger, potentially causing more anxiety in the future. The best defense against dental anxiety is prevention! When your child’s teeth and gums are healthy and pain-free, visits to the dentist can be quick and easy! Follow the important guidelines below to help minimize dental anxiety in your little one:
- Ensure your child is getting a balanced diet low in sugar (especially sticky sugars).
- Gently brush around teeth and gums morning and night with a soft brush.
- Floss daily between teeth that touch each other.
- Find a licensed pediatric dentist, like Dr. Jackson, who is specialized in handling dental anxiety in children.
- View pictures of the dental office and staff members with your child ahead of time; familiarity can be very soothing.
- Schedule your child’s appointment when they are more likely to be calm and cooperative. Avoid times when they are tired or hungry.
- Keep your 6 month dental check-ups. Having a routine and building the doctor/child relationship is a great way to increase trust.
- Speak positively about your child’s dentist as well as your own dentist and the whole dental experience! Children are very perceptive!
- Bring your child’s favorite toy and/or blanket to the dental visits to keep them more comfortable.
- Use relatable words to help your child understand what is happening; avoid words that may initiate fear.
- Allow your child to ask questions and express any concerns.
- Remain calm and quiet during your child’s appointment. Children will reflect the emotions of their guardians. If you’re feeling anxious, it may be best to step away. You can relax knowing your child is in safe and excellent hands.
- Lastly, Don’t wait if you notice a problem in your child’s mouth. Call Clubhouse Pediatric Dentistry about any concerns right away!
When Do We Use Sedation Dentistry?
The use of sedation during dental treatment is referred to as sedation dentistry. Sedation dentistry uses sedatives to help patients relax during dental procedures. Sedation is most typically utilized during lengthy operations, for patients with dental phobias, or for children unable to hold still. Sedation can range from nitrous oxide “laughing gas” to calm a patient to general anesthetics used to put patients to sleep. Sedation may be necessary for patients with dental anxiety, low pain tolerance, severe dental treatment, physical disabilities, special healthcare needs, strong gag reflexes, or other special circumstances.