Clever Ways To Keep Your Child From Hating The Dentist

Do your kids hate going to the dentist? You’re not alone if you have to fight with them every time they have a dentist appointment. It doesn’t have to be that way!  

Here are some clever ways to keep your child from hating the dentist for a fuss-free appointment.

1. Visit the Dentist Early On 

Establishing a connection early on with your child’s local dentist in a larger city in Queensland, Australia will help them to soon become more familiar and comfortable with visiting their dentist in Townsville. It is important to allay any fears they may pick up from other children, as early as possible. As soon as your child gets teeth, set up a dental appointment. They’ll recognize the building and won’t be scared to enter.  

Your child will likely be with the same dentist for many years. However, if it takes you some time to get to the dentist from where you live, make sure that you bring your kid's favorite toys and games to distract them from the nervous anticipation, and to help them to stay as relaxed as possible. Remember, if they build a friendly relationship with their pediatric dentist in Phoenix (or wherever you live) from a young age, they'll feel comfortable and at ease when in the chair.

2. Be a Role Model for Them 

Your children look up to you for everything. They watch your every movement, and you might catch them mimicking you at times. When you have a dentist appointment, bring them along. They can observe how you react to teeth cleanings and x-rays. If you need orthodontic braces like Invisalign, you can find out more here about how you can explain to them that if they eventually need braces too, then their peers will not even be able to see their “magic” invisible braces either!

If they’re able to watch you get your teeth cleaned and see that it isn’t so scary, they’ll be more likely to enjoy — or at least not hate — the dentist.

3. Read Books About Going to the Dentist 

A great way to encourage your child to go to the dentist is by reading books about dental visits. Many books are available that show someone who is scared to go to the dentist overcome their fears. Plus, they’ll love bonding with you as you read the story to them!  

Getting information about dentist visits from fun and colorful stories makes the scenario better. Kids will see that going to the dentist isn’t that big of a deal.

4. Avoid Mentioning All the Details 

Getting into every detail with your child about a visit to the dentist will certainly keep them from wanting to go to the dentist. Telling them about what goes on at the dentist might scare them or cause unnecessary anxiety.  

Keep your attitude and words positive as you talk to your child about the dentist, especially if it’s their first time going. Don’t add unnecessary information, like the possibility of a cavity or having to get a filling.

5. Role Play a Dentist Visit 

Children love to pretend, so why not make a pretend trip to the dentist? To make it fun, you could purchase items that they can play with over and over to continue pretending to be a dentist. All you really need, though, is a toothbrush and a mirror. 

Help your child count their teeth while you hold up a mirror so they can see inside their mouth. Explain that the dentist will use a mirror, too, to look at all of their teeth. Then, using the toothbrush, brush your teeth for them or have them practice brushing. Your child can even role-play on a doll or stuffed animal.

6. Distract Them 

Another great technique during a trip to the dentist is using a distraction. The drilling and suction tool noises can frighten younger children. As long as it’s okay with the dentist, maybe your child could wear noise-canceling headphones or listen to external music. Some dental offices even provide you with something to watch. 

If distractions don’t work, you can ask your dentist if your child can bring a comfort item, like a blanket or a toy. Something from home can help your child feel more comfortable as they sit in the dentist’s chair. You can also add some humor, which lightens the mood!

7. Understand Why They Dislike the Dentist 

If your child is older and still detests the dentist, you might want to ask them why they don’t like the dentist. Getting to the root of the hatred can help you develop solutions that might work for them. Sometimes, what your child needs most is someone who will understand them. 

Avoid making the conversation negative. Help your child accept that they have a fear so they can get over the fear more quickly and with more understanding. If they don’t like the noises, suggest that they listen to music while they’re getting dental work. If they are afraid they’ll have a cavity, explain that the dentist is there to help them and encourage your child to have better dental habits.

8. Don’t Bribe Your Child 

Bribing your child with a treat even before you get to the dentist’s office makes them think something terrible is going to happen. Why would you need to treat them to ice cream or a lollipop if they behave at the dentist? 

Plus, you don’t want to reward them with a sugary treat, especially after the dentist advises against it. Instead, give your child encouragement and praise them once the visit is over.

9. Explain Why They Need to Go to the Dentist 

Dental hygiene is necessary for overall wellbeing. Your child should understand the importance of going to the dentist. It’s something they need to do — not a choice. The dentist cares for your child’s teeth and makes sure they’re not causing further issues.  

Additionally, explain that they need to go to the dentist to keep cavities away and ensure that their smile will continue to be beautiful and bright.

10. Encourage Them to Ask the Dentist Questions 

Children are naturally curious. You probably know this as you hear “why” from them all the time. Let them ask the dentist questions. Rather than hearing information from you, they can learn directly from the dentist.  

Dentists work with kids all the time, so they’re used to questions. Encouraging them to ask questions will help them feel more comfortable as the dentist uses various products and tools on their teeth.

Smile! 

With these tips, your child will learn to love the dentist. You both will be smiling before and after the appointment!