5 Tips for Getting Your Reluctant Kids to the Dentist

Do you have a hard time getting your kids to the dentist? Well, you are certainly not alone.

It is actually very common for children to experience a fear of visiting the dentist.

Our Top 5 Tips to Help Your Child Through a Dental Visit

While fear of dentists can spring up for many reasons, science has found that a child’s fear is often a result of a parent’s own dental anxieties. This is why it is important for parents to take steps to neutralize these fears so the child can move past them.

Here are some tips to help make an anxious child’s dental visit a breeze.

1. Give Advanced Notice

Before the big day, be sure to give your child an advanced warning that a dental visit is coming up.

Children thrive on predictability and giving them plenty of warning will allow them the time that they need to process any anxiety or ask you any questions they may have.

2. Be Honest and Straightforward

If your child has questions, try to answer them honestly. At the same time, also try not to overwhelm an anxious child with too much information, as this will only heighten their distress.

Whatever you do, never lie to a child to try to soften the blow, this will only make them more distrustful of experiences in the future, and they might not take you at your word in the future.

3. Bring Along a Favourite Toy or Comfort Object

Having a familiar toy can do a lot to comfort a child and help lessen anxiety and stress.

In addition, by associating the experience with a beloved object, the child is likely to be less fearful and hold more positive associations of the experience.

4. Stay Calm and Relaxed

It can be difficult to remain composed when your child is upset or in distress, but if they throw a tantrum at the dentist office, it is important to try to remain as relaxed and collected as possible.

If you become agitated, the child is likely to sense your anxiety and they will believe that their own fear is justified. Remaining calm will demonstrate to a nervous child that there is nothing to fear.

5. Trust Your Dentist

Remember that your dentist is a qualified professional who is here to help. They deal with children on a daily basis and are well informed as to how do to handle a fearful child.

And, don’t be afraid to ask your dentist for their advice.

We Are Highly Experienced in Pediatric Dentistry and We’re Happy To Help Teach Little Ones About Proper Dental Care

Here at Pickering Square Dental, we understand how hard it can be to get your little ones into the dentist office. That’s why we are here to help. We have a full staff of qualified professionals who are here to guide you through every step of the process.

To learn more, come and check us out in person, contact us online, or give us a call at 905.420.1777

 

Dental Tips for Moms

mother and daughter brush their teeth

Mothers all over the world deserve to be honored and celebrated every single day. If you are a mom, then you should know that you should be able to give yourself that precious gift that can last forever – exceptional dental health.

 

Of course, we know that as a mother, you are probably very busy. You do have your children and the entire household to take care of, and you might even have to work or run a business. In all that business, it’s not hard to understand why you sometimes have no choice but to prioritize. That means some things get compromised – and unfortunately, most of the time that includes your teeth.

 

It should not be that way, though! Your oral health is very important. When you pay attention to your teeth and care for them like you care for your family, you can expect them to be in great condition for a really long time, too.

 

Because we care for you, here are some great dental care tips that you should add on your to-do list:

  1. Brush your teeth properly. Doing so doesn’t mean you should brush too hard, as that could hurt your gums. But make sure you brush all the surfaces, front and back, up and down.
  2. Brush your teeth for at least two minutes. It takes at least a couple of minutes for you to really remove plaque from your teeth!
  3. Don’t forget to floss! We know that would take an extra minute or two but you should not skip it. It’s the only way you can remove plaque from between your teeth and protect them from cavities.
  4. Do some de-stressing! Believe it or not, stress can affect your oral health. It can lead to teeth grinding and clenching, cause TMJ even outbreaks of cold sores and canker sores. Do yoga or some meditative activity to relax.
  5. Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables. You know this of course. This is the exact same thing you tell your kids at the table every meal time. Don’t forget that fruits and veggies are not only good for your overall health but your teeth as well!
  6. Visit your dentist regularly! Do not push back those dental appointments. You are scheduled to have those cleanings and treatments for a reason. Besides, you do not want your kids to think it is okay to skip dental appointments, do you?

 

Your kids look up to you and they need you. You want to always set a good example and you want to always be there for them. Keeping your teeth healthy helps you do both!

 

Are you looking for a dental office that you and your kids can visit and feel comfortable and welcome? Call or visit Pickering Square Dental now!