Is Your Child Afraid Of The Dentist?
posted: Mar. 30, 2022.
Going to any type of doctor can increase anxiety in a child, dentists included. A child may experience anxiety or fear that dental cleanings will be painful. At Burbank Pediatric Dentistry Inc. with Dr. Hamlet Avanesian in Burbank, CA, we are proud to treat children of all ages and serve as an anxiety-free introduction into a lifetime of healthy teeth.
Introducing Your Child To The Dentist
The first step is bringing your child to our office as early as possible. We typically recommend children come into our office at one year of age. The sooner your child becomes accustomed to the dentist, the more likely he or she will experience less stress and anxiety at future appointments.
The next step is to remember that you are your child’s best role model. This means that if you do not display anxiety related to his or her dentist’s appointment, your child will feel less anxiety. You could read your child a book about visits to the dentist or play with a stuffed animal, pretending that the animal is going to the dentist. Avoid the use of words known to cause anxiety in children such as 'hurt' or 'shot.' We have many years of experience in caring for children’s teeth, and understand how to speak to a child to comfort them through their cleaning.
While it can be tempting to promise rewards for good behavior, we recommend not doing so. This can induce anxiety in a child, who may decide there is something to be afraid of because their bravery is being rewarded.
Your Child Is In Good Hands
We understand not all children’s dental visits will go perfectly. Your child may experience some tears or anxiety related to their visit. We can help you and your child through these moments of worry to have a successful appointment.
To learn more about our Burbank Pediatric Dentistry Inc. in Burbank, CA, please call Dr. Hamlet Avanesian at 818-659-7772.