How Your Dental Fear May Affect Your Child

April is National Anxiety Month, so it’s a perfect time to talk about dental fear. Many adults fear the dentist. If you’re a parent, you may feel just as anxious when your child has a dental appointment. In fact, a recent study conducted by Delta Dental found that you might actually be transferring your own dental fear to your children. Nearly half of the parents participating in the poll reported feeling nervous before a dental exam, and roughly the same number of children experienced the same feeling of dread. A fear of pain was the top concern. Long appointment times, a need for additional dental work, and not liking the dentist were other concerns.

Fear of Dentist: How Parents and Dentists Can Ease Kids’ Anxiety



Dealing with a child’s dental phobia can be a challenge, but parents and dental professionals can work together to make children feel at ease. Being upfront and honest about the experience is important. Telling your child that it’s not going to hurt might seem like a good idea, but the possibility of pain may not have even entered your child’s mind until you mentioned it. Instead of making unrealistic promises, try focusing on more positive aspects of the visit. Talk to your child’s dentist beforehand, so you’ll know what to expect. Some dentists prefer that parents stay with their children during visits, and some do not. If you’re worried about your child’s dental fear, discuss your concerns, so your dentist can do everything possible to make the experience positive. Dentists can also help by making their offices kid-friendly with bright decor, toys, and activities.

Fear of Dentist in Adults: Tips for Managing Dental Phobia



Managing your own dental fear can be a key factor in preventing your child’s anxiety. Be sure to have your dentist explain your treatments and procedures in detail, including how much they will cost and how long it will take to fully recover. Find a dentist who is friendly, open, and willing to help you overcome your fears. Other ways to ease dental fear include booking early morning appointments, taking a friend along for moral support, or listening to music during treatment. If your dental phobia is preventing you from getting proper dental care, ask your dentist about conscious sedation.

To learn about our family dentistry practice in South Bend, call The Dental Center of Indiana today or make an appointment.