Tips to Help Kids Get Over Fear of the Dentist from Parents Magazine

Owl Tooth Pillow

Kids & dentists just don't mix.  It's practically a fact of life.  In spite of this, there are some excellent tips we found from Parents Magazine that help ease children's fear about their cleanings and visits. 


1. Start Early with Visits to the Dentist


Parents recommends starting visits at the age of 1 or when the first tooth is visible.  Starting kids off young at the dentist will make them feel more comfortable later on when they have to come in for regular visits or in the event of an emergency. 


2. Watch the words!


Dentists and parents can make the visit better by using positive phrases and avoiding anything that may sound scary or alarming (aka "shot", "pain", "hurt").  


3. Pretend Visit


You can always play pretend with your child before their first appointment.  Parents recommends using a toothbrush to count child's teeth or holding up a mirror like a dentist would to check their teeth.  Picture books are also a good idea if child is really nervous or anxious. 


4. Prepare for Fussiness


Children may cry or whine (or even scream a little), which is completely normal.  The dentist and their staff are used to this, so stay calm and just try to make child feel comfortable.  


5. No Bribes!


"Many experts do not recommend promising your child a special treat if she behaves well at the dentist. Doing so will only increase their apprehension. Saying, "If you don't fuss or cry, you'll get a lollipop," might make your little one think, "What's so bad about the dentist that I might want to cry?"" After the visit, simply praise your child for behaving well and for being brave through the visit. Or bribe them with great decor like the Butterflies and Daisies Keepsake chest which features a first tooth envelope on the lid. 

Keepsake Chest with First Tooth Envelope