Early exposure to the dentist helps remove any preconceptions about dental procedures. — Filepic
FOR many children, the idea of visiting the dentist brings out feelings of anxiety and fear. Unfamiliar sights and sounds contribute to this anxiety, which causes children to avoid routine dental visits.
It is important that children develop a positive perception towards dental check-up because it is beneficial for their overall health. Practical strategies can be helpful in relieving anxieties surrounding dental experience for parents and caregivers.
Imagine instead a cheerful, brightly-lit dental clinic that offers various fun things to look at, where everyone has a friendly smile. Instead of the usual sense of fear, there is a sense of excitement!
A visit to the dentist need not be a scary episode. If children are made to enjoy their early dentist visit’s experience, there will come a time when they will look forward to their appointments rather than dread them.
Here are some strategies parents can employ:
1. Start early
It is important to get children into the habit of going to the dentist, as this helps remove any preconceptions about dental procedures.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD) recommends that children have their first dental visit by their first birthday or no later than six months following the emergence of their baby teeth.
Taking them for their first appointment at an early age desensitises the child to the dental clinic environment, minimising the chances of anxiety for future appointments related to dental procedures.
2. Choose the right dentist
The process of choosing a dentist is critical when planning for a child’s dental procedure. Paediatric dentists are dental specialists trained to provide systematic, comprehensive care for children, and create a child-friendly environment.
When choosing a dentist for your child, seek someone who is described as gentle and patient. Many dentists are now embracing clinics that are child- and family-friendly.
3. Use positive words
Parental influence, when done correctly, should condition the child so that subsequent visits will be stress-free. It is a good idea to steer away from negative language such as “pain” or “hurt”. Parents can choose language that reinforces good behaviour.
Describe the dentist as someone who helps preserve and protect their teeth. Areas that children may focus on are “counting teeth” or “smiling” which parents may use to further enhance the child’s perspective of the visit.
4. Role play
Acting out a scenario is one way that has been identified as being useful for children who are about to undergo a dental procedure.
Parents can take turns being the dentist and patient, so children can learn what a mirror and a toothbrush are, so they won’t be scared of the unknown. In addition, social stories and videos associated with such visits are also likely to facilitate with adaptation.
5. Encourage questions
Discussing dental health allows children to express additional fears and concerns that may be buried within them.
Encourage them to voice their concerns about how it feels to be in the dentist’s chair and what will happen during the appointment. With the right responses, parents can help children better understand the situation and reduce their stress levels.
6. Stay supportive
Children naturally tend to copy their parents. If a child witnesses their parent dreading a visit to the dentist, chances are that parent and child will fear that visit. However, a constructive and reassuring parent can also help create a comforting ambience. Besides, parents can also ease fears by letting children hold their hands during the appointment.
7. Use distractions
There are times when a child does not want to focus on the treatment. In such cases, many dentists recommend distraction.
These days, there are a variety of dental clinics that provide TVs, headphones and even toys to children. Furthermore, teddies or books can be used as aids. All of these can help reduce anxiety and make the visit more pleasant. Parents can bring a child’s favourite teddies or toys to the clinic. A familiar, beloved toy will help them feel safe and secure.
8. Reward
The use of positive reinforcement has been proven to be effective in many situations.
Parents can reward their children with gifts and promises if they behave well at the dentist. These could include simple things like stickers, toys or even going to the aquarium or park.
By implementing these strategies, parents can effectively reduce their child’s anxiety about dental visits. A supportive approach, positive reinforcement and proper preparation can turn dental care from a source of fear into an opportunity for learning and growth.
Establishing a positive relationship with dentist early on lays the foundation for a lifetime of good behaviours, helping children develop healthy smiles and confidence.
Associate Professor Dr Ahmad Faisal Ismail is a paediatric dental specialist at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). He is also the president of the Malaysian Association of Paediatric Dentistry (MAPD).
