Children can easily develop a fear of the dentist, but most are initially curious during their early visits. Many professionals suggest that children should start seeing a dentist at around the age of one. This helps them get used to the dentist early on. By growing up with a dentist present, kids are less likely to develop a fear of dentists and will learn that dental care is as important as other routine health care. Throughout this time, parents should schedule dental visits carefully so that their child is well-rested and more cooperative. Doing so prevents children from forming negative associations with the dentist’s office.
Parents can also reduce a child’s fear by keeping dental visits simple. Do not explain the visit in huge detail, especially if the child is too young to fully understand. Extra information can create more anxiety and questions for children. Further, using negative words such as pain and shot create fear in many children. Reminding children that adults see the dentist too may also help however, parents must be careful about how they discuss these experiences. Many adults also feel anxiety about seeing a dentist and children can easily pick up on those emotions if they go with a parent to dentist appointment or hear about negative stories.