We rarely get anxious children patients, but we get a lot of anxious parents saying that there children are anxious! This anxiety is transfered purely through the way the parents behave towards their children prior to a dental appointment (Otherwise children children would have no idea about dentists beforehand). The parents probably learnt this behaviour from their parents! However this blog has not about condeming parents as I have children too and know all about it. What this blog is about is to tell you how to approach taking your child to the dentist, without transferring your fears. (We firmly believe in preventative dentistry, and catching children young gives us a massive head start when it comes to preventing tooth decay ,gum problems and avoiding the development of phobias)
If you are a parent, anxious of the dentist there is no reason your children should inherit your fear.
Treat coming to the dentist as nothing more than routine. Let the dentist deal with the situation and do not promise treats or offer bribes. This not only creates a 'rod for your back', it almost encourages the expectation that your child has to go through something bad to get something good. This actually makes the situation harder for the dentist to deal with, even if in the short term it helps the parent! Let your child make up their own minds, dentistry has changed!
Children pick up on your 'non-verbal' communication, you would be amazed what you give away especially if you are anxious about a situation, such as coming to the dentist.
We usually have a ball of a time when our younger patients come in, we encourage them to join in, even be a little cheeky, but what we are essentially doing is creating an environment that they feel safe in, learn a little bit about what we do, and should any treatment be required, they are not at all fussed about the idea. (It's the pre-concieved ideas about what 'may' happen that cause all the problems). If you want to know more, please give us a call on 01883 622222
Beautiful teeth, healthy gums and a stunning smile can all be achieved at Warlingham Green Dental Cinic. We will help you feel safe, relaxed and empowered to make the most suitable dental choices.
