10 Helpful Tips To Help Kids Overcome the Fear of Dentists

10-Helpful-Tips-To-Help-Kids-Overcome-the-Fear-of-Dentists

Dental visits can help your child become familiar with the dentist clinic and can promote lifelong healthy oral hygiene practices. This eases worry and anxiety and can result in many future checkups that are stress-free.

Ideally, the first time a parent should take their kid to the dentist is when their first tooth erupts, or no later than age two. While anxiety about going to the dentist can start at any age, it is an especially challenging issue in kids. This is because skipping routine dental checkups is bad for your kid’s overall health and oral health, so it’s important to help them get over their fear of the dentist.

So, here we have listed some helpful tips for making your kid a brave little patient so you can relax and make sure they have a pleasant attitude about getting their teeth checked.

Why Is It Important For Your Kid To Go To The Dentist?

Children should get regular dental checkups because they might develop cavities soon after their teeth first erupt. So, it is not only essential to schedule regular dental checkups during a child’s early years, it is also necessary to teach them excellent dental hygiene practices at home. These things are important to ensure their long-term health.

Early check ups eliminate tooth decay and dental pain, which are dental issues that can later in life cause attention problems and health problems. According to research, children who have healthy teeth are generally happier, perform better in school, and have higher self-esteem.

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Tips to Help Kids Overcome Their Fear of Dentists

Typically, your kids may visit the dentist ten or more times before entering school as their teeth continue to erupt and develop. Follow these tips to help negate the fear of dentist in children and to make future visits easier for your child. This will help them feel more at ease and comfortable.

1. Begin Your Dental Visits Early

Parents should start bringing their children to the dentist as soon as possible. Starting dental visits early is best for your child’s long-term dental health.  Childhood dental anxiety is frequently avoided in children who visit the dentist frequently starting around the time they obtain their first teeth.

Avoid giving your children too many details when preparing for a visit, especially the first time. By doing so, more concerns will be raised, and revealing more details about an additional procedure, such as a filling, your child might require, could lead to unnecessarily high anxiety.

However, you also have to avoid offering your child false optimism when talking about a visit; instead, have a positive outlook. One expert suggests that you have to avoid suggesting that everything will be alright because if it isn’t alright and the child ends up needing treatment, then the child will lose trust in both the dentist and the parent. This could lead to fear of dentists.

2. Select A Dentist That They Like

Choose a pediatric dentist who makes your child feel at peace and ease. Your child is more likely to have a negative dental experience and develop dentophobia (dental phobia) if they don’t enjoy going to the dentist. So, taking them to a dentist they like will only help.

If you have a kid with dental phobia and is in need of dental treatment, we encourage you to visit our Sunshine Coast Dental Clinic, which takes into consideration children’s fear and offers treatment accordingly.

3. Emphasise the Need for Good Dental Hygiene

Teach your children the importance of visiting the dentist and that the dentist will take care of their teeth so they are strong enough for them to eat with. You might also mention how the dentist guarantees that his clients enjoy radiant smiles for years to come by preventing cavities. A no-nonsense attitude from the parent will set the tone for what the youngster should anticipate achieving outstanding dental health, as the doctor explained.

4. Positively Describe the Procedure to Them

Children typically avoid going to the dentist because of stories they hear about adults’ negative dental experiences. These kids’ fear of dentists is rooted into these retellings. They discovered that using dentists’ services could be harmful.

Make the message more upbeat rather than using the phrase “it won’t hurt,” which indicates that it could cause discomfort.

To make them feel better, say things like “it will be a thrilling experience” or “they will tickle your teeth.”

Explain to your child why you must incorporate this into your routine. They will more clearly comprehend why they must go through the process if you explain the rationale. Describe the significance of their dental health and how it affects their general well-being. Explain the importance of good dental hygiene and why it should be a part of their wellness routine. Sometimes learning about the negative effects of doing nothing is sufficient to persuade someone to act.

5. Let Them Control Their Thoughts and Emotions

It’s normal to desire to distance oneself from fear. It is advisable to avoid behaviours and circumstances that seem dangerous or potentially harmful, especially from a child’s perspective.

Children lack the adult-like ability to deal with fear, worry, or anything they see as dangerous. Therefore, it is preferable to support them in accepting dread as a natural response rather than conveying the idea that it is unreal or unacceptable; allow them to share their sentiments regarding the impending appointment or current circumstances.

Don’t “sugar-coat” their future experience; instead, reaffirm your faith in them and ask questions without causing fear. A preferable question to use is “How are you feeling about going to the doctor or dentist?” as opposed to “Are you scared of dentist or about going to the doctor or dentist?”

6. Show Them How it’s Done

Allow them to accompany you whenever you or a member of your family goes to the dentist for a checkup. But watch out that the person getting their teeth cleaned won’t scream or frighten your child even more.

Take note of the type of service they will receive during that visit. A simple checkup or cleaning is a friendlier option than a real tooth extraction.

It will be easier for them to get ready and feel at ease for their real appointment if they are familiar with the clinic, including how it looks, who the staff members are, and what to expect.

7. Encourage Them To Discuss It

Parents ought to urge their kids to inquire about what to anticipate. Don’t be afraid to respond when your children ask you questions about going to the dentist or what to expect. They can approach the dentist differently as adults if they believe you are being dishonest or withholding information. Slowing down and explaining the operation in detail before it begins can help a worried patient.

Always be truthful while responding to inquiries. Don’t go into depth about all the potentially harmful dental procedures, such as getting fillings. Your youngster might get afraid of the dentist if you do this. You and your child’s dentist can take care of any cavities afterward.

How to Calm a Child at the Dentist?

Before we read a few more tips, here’s another option that can help your child overcome the fear of dentists. You can find a dentist that specialises in children’s sedation dentistry, where the dentist will put your child in a relaxed state between wakefulness and sleep. So, when the child wakes up and their teeth are fixed they will see the dentist in a new light and not be afraid of them.

Here are some steps to follow to calm your child at the dentist.

1. Raise Their Expectations with Advanced Preparation

Giving your child a brief description of what a doctor’s or dentist’s office can help them prepare for a positive experience. It’s critical to refrain from describing impossible dental situations that severely decrease their expectations.

For instance, saying that going to the doctor or dentist is “no big issue” or “won’t be uncomfortable” are promises that could be easily broken and lose the patient’s trust.

After an appointment, make sure to thank them for their bravery in a way that means something to them.

2. Assist Your Dentist in Reaching a Common Ground with Your Child

Give your child’s caregiver as much information about your child as you can, including what your child likes to do and play with, what they prefer to watch on TV, what sports they play, their hobbies, favourite foods, and snacks, etc.

With the use of this information, the healthcare provider and your child can become friends and lighten the mood during their initial and ensuing follow-up appointments.

3. Keep a Regular Schedule with a Reliable Dentist

Regular dental visits are necessary for children who are prone to dental anxiety to help them overcome their worries. Arrange a regular dental check up for kids every six months even though you don’t have to go every week.

The child can become accustomed to the dentist, the staff, and the office by visiting frequently. Children are more likely to feel secure and comfortable during dental visits if their surroundings are known to them. Additionally, it’s crucial to make sure that your kid can see that you trust the doctor or dentist you’ve picked.

Wrapping Up,

If your child is afraid to go to the dentist, try these tips to help them overcome their fear. A paediatric dentist has the knowledge and skills necessary to deal with children’s dental fear.

We’re all about making dental visits great (yes, it’s possible!) so kids look forward to them, relieving parental stress and ensuring that young smiles are healthy and happy. Set up the appointment for your kid right away!

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Our Dedicated Team at Oris Dental is Ready to Provide You with Excellent Care!

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Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi - Dentist at Oris Dental

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.


Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi

Dr. Adarsh Pisharodi, serving as the principal dentist at Oris Dental, brings a wealth of expertise spanning over 26 years to his esteemed practice. Specializing in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, and orthodontics, he takes immense pride in rejuvenating countless smiles and instilling confidence in Sunshine Coast residents. As an esteemed member of the Australian Dental Association and esteemed dental societies, he remains steadfast in delivering exceptional care to his patients.

Adarsh (Principal Dentist)

Adarsh

Adarsh (A-Dash) is the principal dentist at Oris Dental. Adarsh graduated as a dentist in 1996 from the University of Mumbai (Bombay, India). He entered private practice as an assistant dentist in one of the leading practices in Mumbai from 1996-2002. The practice offered all aspects of dentistry with the exception of Orthodontics. This prompted Adarsh to pursue a post graduate degree in Orthodontics and successfully completed the 3 year Full time the master’s program from University of Mumbai (Bombay, India) in 2005. Since then, Adarsh has been in private practice both as a general dentist and an orthodontist. He also served as teaching faculty at University in Mumbai for 3 yrs and when in India, he has been ‘the dentist’ to many dentists!! In 2008, Adarsh took the Australian Dental Council exam for direct recognition of his skill in Australia. He successfully completed the exams in the first attempt and moved to Australia early 2009. He has been in private practice in Australia since Jan 2009. Oris Dental was set up in Minyama in 2011. Oris Dental is now over 8 years old and is growing to be a well-respected practice in the area. He is particularly interested in Cosmetic dentistry Dental implants and Orthodontics. Adarsh hopes to use all the experience he has gained in the past 22 years, to offer the best in dentistry to all his patients in this practice. Adarsh believes in spreading smiles and has successfully designed smiles and in doing so improved the lives and self-confidence of many Sunshine Coast locals (Take a look at our Smile gallery!). Adarsh is an active member of the Australian Dental Association since 2009 He held the post of Senior Lecturer in Orthodontics in Mumbai University before moving to Australia. He is a Life member of the Indian Dental Association, serving as the General Secretary of the Association (Mumbai City Chapter) 2007-2009 He is Life member of the Indian Orthodontic Society. He is Candidate for Membership Examination MRACDS (Ortho) and plans to complete his membership exams soon. Adarsh is also currently pursuing his Diploma in Implant dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons(Edinburgh). Adarsh has recently complete intensive training in implant placement and restoration in Neoss and TRI (Swiss) Implant system. He is married to Prachi for 15yrs and they have a 11 yr old son – Aarjav, a little daughter Aria who has just started prep and Daisy the mad Lab pup! He is currently learning to play Tennis and Badminton and loves watching the cricket!

Prachi (Owner/ Dentist)

Prachi

Prachi is the director, part time dentist at Oris Dental. Prachi graduated in 2002 from Nair hospital dental college, Mumbai (Bombay, India), one of the leading dental schools in Asia. She then worked in multiple private practices across Mumbai (Bombay, India). While working as a dentist in various practices she picked up the positives from them and implemented them into this practice at Oris Dental. She is very friendly by nature and is particularly good at handling children, preventive dentistry and hygiene. Prachi moved to Australia in 2009. Prachi has there on completed her Australian Dental council exams successfully in early 2011 and is now ready to bring in her 12 years of experience to Oris Dental. Prachi also serves as a part time dentist at the Oral Health Services Sunshine Coast in Caloundra Kawana and Nambour as needed.

Davina (Dentist)

Davina

Davina has been a part of our family since 2014. After completing her bachelor’s degree from the University of Queensland, Davina has been in private practice in an around the Sunshine coast for a year before joining us full time. Davina shows exemplary skills in building a great relationship and rapport with her patients and is well regarded by her peers. Davina is very highly regarded by her current patients. Davina currently works 3 days a week.

Lise Slack (Dental Hygienist)

Lise Stack

Our dental hygienist Lise Slack is a trained member of the dental team who works together with your dentist in preventing gum diseases and dental decay.

Lise joined OrisDental in 2015 and has worked extensively in private specialist practices. She graduated from the University of Stellenbosch in South Africa in 1982 and has had specific training and exposure to an extensive range of periodontal conditions and treatment modalities.

Lise’s dad was a professor in dentistry and this is where her love of teeth comes from. She has invented two specialist oral care products which are available in Australia and several international countries. Lise has also lectured at international dental conferences on the maintenance of dental implants and how to help patients care for their teeth once they have contracted periodontitis.

Both adults and children can benefit from having an appointment with a dental hygienist as they are taught how dental diseases occur and how it can be prevented or managed.

Lise is married to Sam and they have two daughters. They value their family time and love adventurous outdoor sports.

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jesse (Dental Assistant)

Jess has been a part of Oris Dental from the outset in 2011. Always cheerful and welcoming Jess is the star amongst our patients at our practice. If you cannot find Jess in the practice she will be at the beach!

 

Kaela (Receptionist)

Debra (Receptionist)

Kaela arrived at our practice in early 2021. Coming from eight years of retail experience in Northern NSW, she loves working with people and assisting in any way she can. Kaela has also just finished her training as a dental assistant. You will immediately fall in love with her happy, bubbly personality.

Abby (Sr. Dental Assistant)

Abby (Dental Assistant)

Abby is originally from Hervey Bay, but she has been calling the Sunshine Coast home with her husband and two kids for the past four and a half years. Abby completed her cert III in dental assisting in 2015 and is looking to further her studies In the near future. Abby enjoys camping, playing guitar, and travelling
the world with her family.

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    Dr. Param Dass

    Dr. Param Dass

    Param Dass graduated with a Bachelor in Dentistry from the University of Otago, NZ in 2005. He went on to complete his Bachelor in Medicine from the University of Auckland NZ in 2010.

    Param started working part time in our practice since 2015 with special interest in surgical procedures including Dental implants and bone grafting procedures, Surgical extractions including Wisdom teeth and other minor surgical procedures.

    Param is well known for being gentle and caring in treating patients with dental anxiety and maintains a calm demeanour.

    He is also well trained in working with patients with various levels of anxiety, offering dental treatment under Happy Gas, Twilight sedation or under Full general anaesthetic.

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Dr. Brayden Fracchia

    Brayden hails from North Queensland, having completed his Bachelor of Dental Surgery at JCU Cairns, practicing in Hobart and outreach dentistry from Mount Isa over the course of his studies. He has worked with us since 2020. Brayden enjoys becoming a part of a community and enjoys the outdoors and sport in his spare
    time. Having only recently moved to the beautiful Sunshine Coast, Brayden is enthusiastic and well versed in all aspects of basic general dentistry and looks forward to bringing North Queensland hospitality to the South East.

    Briar

    Briar

    Briar stated off as a trainee dental assistant in our practice mid-2020. She is the youngest member of our practice and is rapidly becoming an integral part of team Oris. Briar completed her Certificate 3 in our practice in 2021 and works full time Dental assistant at Oris Dental.

    Drew

    Drew

    Drew is Oris Dental’ newest member, who has only recently moved from his hometown of Rockhampton. He is our Oral Health Therapist, who specializes in oral health education, general check-ups, fillings and more!
    He loves a good chat and a laugh at work. He prioritizes patient’s comfort and likes to encourage an environment where everyone feels a sense of security and safety in the dental setting. When Drew isn’t at work you’ll find him having a refreshing swim at the beach or having his usual dirty chai at his local cafe.

    Jasmine

    Jasmine

    Jasmine joined our practice in November 2021 and works with our Oral Health Therapist Drew. Jasmine is new to dental assistance, however is quickly taking on any and all challenges that come her way! She loves animals, and spending quality time with her husband and two kids. Welcome to the team!

    Brooke

    Brooke

    Brooke is originally from Brisbane but has been living on the coast since 2017. She brings over 15 years of experience in the dental industry and has had the opportunity to work in London and Melbourne for the Royal Flying Doctors. Brooke enjoys surfing, scuba diving and exploring the many things that the Sunny Coast has to offer.

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