How To Make Visiting the Dentist Stress-Free for Your Child

One of the best ways you can help give your child the gift of good oral health is by taking them to the dentist twice a year. Unfortunately, not all children enjoy going to the dentist. Some may be frightened at the sights, sounds, and sensations they experience while in the dental chair. Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry enjoys creating a welcoming, comforting environment for young patients. Below are some of our time-tested tips to help your child have a stress-free dentist visit.

Explain What’s Happening in Their Words

Many children are confused about why they have to go to the dentist and what they’re experiencing, especially if it’s one of their first visits. Use their own words to help explain what they’re going through. For example, when the dentist takes your child’s X-rays, you can explain to them that the dentist needs pictures of their teeth to get a close look at them. This is something our dentists do as well to help your child become familiar with our tools and procedures.

Bring Their Favorite Toy or Blanket

Give your child the comforts of home by bringing along their favorite toy or blanket to help comfort them during their treatment. The dentist’s office may be full of unfamiliar things and a little bit of familiarity can help calm your child’s nerves when dealing with them.

Remind Them Why They’re There

Your child’s early dentist visits will set the tone for how they see the dentist for the rest of their lives. It’s always good to remind your child why they’re at the dentist in the first place. Most children will understand the importance of having a healthy, clean smile to help them eat and talk with ease.

Prepare Them for Dental Visits at Home

Make sure your child brushes and flosses their teeth twice a day to keep up their positive oral health habits at home. This will make their twice yearly dental visits much quicker and easier. Don’t forget to make it fun! Reward them for a job well done with their favorite toys and games, tooth-friendly treats, or extra TV time.

Affordable Pediatric Dentistry in San Antonio, TX

Helping young patients enjoy visiting the dentist is one of the best parts of our jobs at Sunshine Pediatric Dentistry. We offer comforting amenities like blankets, toys, books, and TVs, and even relaxing sedation dentistry for nervous patients. We strive to make our treatments affordable to patients of all backgrounds and offer flexible financing so you don’t have to choose between your child’s health and your budget. Ready to set up a stress-free dental appointment for your child? Contact us today to schedule an appointment!