Dental Anxiety in Kids

Dental anxiety is something we understand that some of our patients have. The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY want all of our patients to feel comfortable. Dental anxiety often starts out in childhood. Take some of these tips for easing your child into their dental appointments so they are comfortable, happy, and relaxed

Playing “dentist” at home can help kids become familiar with the examination and cleaning process. Have your child sit back in a chair or couch and open wide. Look in their mouth and count each tooth you see. This helps little kids understand what happens during an appointment and feel more comfortable with it during the real appointment.

Also, kids who start going to the dentist at an early age are usually more relaxed because they have been going as long as they can remember. Kids should start seeing the dentist as soon as they have their first tooth, or at least by the age of one.

Good behavior can also be reinforced by treating them afterwards. This can be simple rewards like a treat afterwards, taking them to the park, or letting them pick dinner. Just be careful to not offer the reward before the visit because this may make them think there is something to be afraid of.

Since dental anxiety usually begins in childhood, it is important to help your child feel relaxed during his or her dental appointment. To schedule your child’s appointment with The Oyster Bay Family Dentists in Oyster Bay, NY, call us at (516) 922-5730 or visit our website, www.oysterbaydentists.com.