If grown adults have a fear of the dentist, pediatric dentistry is obviously a nightmare for many parents with younger children.
We all know the necessity of visiting the dentist, even if your child is petrified. Establishing the right routines with your child at a young age, however, will help them to maintain good oral hygiene throughout their lives.
If you associate pediatric dentistry with dragging or tricking your kids into a dentists’ chair, there are a few tips to help you make the process much easier.
Having the Right Attitude with Pediatric Dentistry
Whether you realize it or not, your children are able to pick up on your emotions better than you think. If you start a conversation with your child going to the dentist already stressed out, your children can tell, and reciprocate that stress level.
When you don’t place expectations on how you think your child will react to certain news, you will be amazed at the outcome. Treat pediatric dentistry as if you are taking a trip to the grocery store. As long as you remain calm, there is a good chance that your child will match your mood.
Start Pediatric Dentistry Habits Early
A good attitude is routed in early habits. When a person is fearful of something, they tend to avoid what they are afraid of, which actually builds on their fears and irrationalities. If you increase your exposure to what you are afraid over time, however, most people are able to either completely overcome their fear, or have it greatly reduced.
Just like exercising and eating right, pediatric dentistry will become much easier for you and your child with consistency. If they become accustom to it early, a few routine checkups will become much easier down the road.
Educate Your Child on Pediatric Dentistry
You shouldn’t try to scare your child with pictures of a mummies’ rotten teeth, but you can explain to him or her the importance of good oral hygiene. A child may be accustomed to the typical bumps and bruises that come with running around, but you can also explain how they can feel the same type of pain in their mouth.
In order to prevent “ouchies” in their teeth, stress the importance of how a pediatric dentist will help keep them happy in the long run. Obviously, don’t get super technical with your child or try to scare them, but give them a basic understanding of why they need to see a dentist.
If you’re looking for pediatric dentistry, the friendly staff of Olney Dental will help your child establish good oral hygiene today! Give us a call today at (301) 250-1057, or you can contact us online for an appointment.
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