03 Sep How to Help Kids with Dental Anxiety: Tips from a Family Dentist
One time we had a new patient who was only four years old. She was so scared, she refused to open her mouth. That is, until she got to “drive” the dental chair herself, pressing the button to raise and lower it several times. Once she felt like she was in control of something, she relaxed and let us clean her teeth.
Most kids who have dental anxiety aren’t scared about the actual procedures. They get scared because strange things are happening to them and they have no choice in the matter.
That’s why we do things like let kids choose which flavor of fluoride or toothpaste they want, which chair position feels most comfortable, or which prize they want after their cleaning. Little things like these help build trust, and when a child has a positive relationship with their dental team, it makes checkups a lot less scary.
Here’s what you can do as a parent to make those first few visits a little easier.
Practice a Pretend Version at Home First
One simple technique we find useful is called “tell-show-do.” We’ll explain what each tool is and demonstrate how it works before using it on a child’s teeth.
You can use this technique at home, too. Let your child hold a toothbrush and describe what it does, then let them “play dentist” with one of their dolls or stuffed animals. You can also take turns “checking” and counting each other’s teeth with a flashlight and a mirror. This kind of pretend play is one of the most effective ways to reduce anxiety about going to the dentist.
Watch What You Say, and How You Say It
Kids pick up on more cues than you might realize, including your own nervousness about the upcoming dentist visit. If you seem worried or stressed, your little one will, too.
Try to keep your language neutral, and talk about their feelings honestly. Ask them what they’re scared of, so we can talk about those fears at their appointment. And plan something fun to do afterwards, so they have something to look forward to besides the checkup.
Take Dental Visits One Step at a Time
If the fear already exists, don’t force a big showdown. You can book a short, no-treatment visit just so your child can say hello to the team, sit in the chair, and get a little more comfortable with the environment. And once a trip to the dentist’s office starts to feel like a routine, it won’t be scary any more.
Visit a Family Dentist Who Understands
Every child is different, and what calms one down might do nothing for another. That’s why our team takes the time to get to know every single patient. Whether your child needs a cavity filled or they’re coming in for their very first checkup, we’ll take things at a pace they’re comfortable with.
If you’re looking for a family dentist in Sun Lakes, contact Saba and Chiappetti Dental Associates to make an appointment today.
Photo by Nathan Anderson on Unsplash used with permission under the Creative Commons license for commercial use 7/27/26.