Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City & Glen Cove
Garden City:516-222-5100
Glen Cove: 516-759-7000
A child’s fear of going to the dentist can be
overwhelming. Seeing the dentist is a significant part of a child’s health in
order to maintain proper oral hygiene. Island Gazette provides pointers to
easing your child into going to the dentist and preventing and diminishing
fear.
Fear is learned through emotional responses.
Children develop a fear through experience and listening. There are certain
things to avoid or assert so your child won’t be afraid to go to the dentist:
- Speaking of your own dental fears or anxieties can put it in your child’s mind that the dentist is not a safe place. They pick up on your fears even through an innocent comment.
- Delaying going to the dentist will only increase any anxieties your child may have about the dentist. Children should start visiting the dentist at around ages 1-2 years old. The younger your child goes, the less likely your child will fear the dentist.
- Sympathizing with your child may only legitimize their fear. Instead interpret a dental experience as a normal and positive experience.
- Do not bribe your child into going to the dentist because from then on they will expect a reward every time they go to the dentist. Share the importance of oral hygiene as a reward instead.
A dental visit can be fun. If you are going to
a reliable pediatric dentist like Pediatric Dentistry of
Garden City, the atmosphere can be positive. Make sure
your child understands all the benefits of going to the dentist’s office.
Don’t let fear take over your child’s thoughts
about the dentist. Oral hygiene is extremely important to a child’s overall
health.
To set up a fun and painless appointment for
your child, please visit Pediatric Dentistry of Garden City at www.pediatricdentistryofgardencity.com,
