mother daughter with dentist

Fun Ways to Make Dental Visits Less Scary for Kids

It’s not surprising that many kids are afraid of visiting the dentist – many adults are too! The trouble is that while most adults understand why those visits are important, kids may not. Making visits fun is a better way to coax reluctant youngsters into the dental chair. Try the strategies below to get your child to see dental appointments in a whole new way.

1. Use Social Stories

Social stories are short narratives that describe how a particular social interaction (like going to the dentist) will go. They’re often used to help kids with autism navigate the world, but they can be helpful for any kid facing a scary event like a dental visit. You can write your own story and read it to your child or use one of the many pre-made ones you’ll find online.

2. Play with Tooth-Themed Toys

Playing with dental-themed toys is another way to get kids to feel more comfortable with dental tools and procedures. There are many plastic tool kits, Play-Doh playsets, and other fun toys available online and at most major stores.

If you think your child might need a filling or two, look for a toy that specifically simulates that part of the process. This is often one of the scariest parts of the visit for kids, but taking control of the procedure through play can help them build confidence and resilience before the big day.

3. Bring Comfort Items

Does your child have a special toy or blanket they love to cuddle with? Bring that item along on their dentist’s visit.

Dolls or stuffed toys work especially well for this purpose because they can serve as a buddy during the visit. Your child can talk to their toy about what they’re experiencing and what they’re afraid of. After you leave, ask them to explain what they learned to the toy. You’ll reinforce the lessons and get a better sense of how well they understood the dentist’s instructions.

4. Offer Rewards

Offering your child a reward for a successful dentist’s visit makes the trip feel more exciting and encourages good behaviour during the appointment. This could be anything from a shopping trip to pick up a new toy to some play time at their favorite park. Avoid promising them sweet treats like ice cream or candy that will harm their oral health.

Many dental offices also keep a supply of small items like stickers, pencils, and toothbrushes to give to child patients after their appointment. Consider looking for a dentist who does this to make every visit feel extra special for your child.

5. Choose an Understanding Dentist

Not all dentists work with children regularly. Those who mostly see adult patients might not be used to taking the calm, comforting approach that anxious kids need to feel safe during their check-up.

Look for a dental office that welcomes child patients with warm smiles and plenty of patience. The staff should be happy to let your child take breaks if needed and answer any questions they have in a way they’ll understand. Knowing that the dentist won’t get frustrated or upset with them during their visit is a huge relief for many kids and may even change their attitude toward the visits altogether.

Get Compassionate Care for Kids at Coscarella Family Dentistry

Making sure your child’s early experiences with dentists are positive ones sets them up for good oral health for life. That’s why we do everything we can to make visits easier for our youngest patients. Contact us today to book an appointment for your child and let us help you show them that dental visits are nothing to be afraid of.

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South Windsor Clinic

1390 Grand Maris Rd W
Windsor, ON. N9E 1E5
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