About Smiles Kids Dental Centre, Sydney’s North Shore
Specialist Paediatric Dentist Dr Caroline Chung shares her tips on giving kids an early – and tear-free – start to good oral health.
Is your child scared of the dentist? Here’s how I help them overcome their fears.
Tip 1: Start super-soon
The Australian Dental Association recommends that babies see a dentist within six months of cutting their first tooth or by one year of age, whichever comes first. “A lot of parents are surprised by that,” says Dr. Caroline Chung. “But the baby teeth are going to last, in some cases, up to 12 or 13 years, so we need to establish good oral habits.” A lot of parents are not aware that they need to clean their baby’s gums after each feed with a soft, clean, damp to keep the gums healthy. Furthermore an early visit gives the dentist an opportunity to teach parents how to brush properly and plan tooth-friendly meals and snacks. And it’s a chance to spot – and fix – any trouble that’s brewing. In fact, the earlier children start seeing a dentist, the more likely they are to avoid dental problems.
Tip 2: Examine your infant at home
Your kid will be more comfortable having their teeth checked in a dentist’s office if they’re already experienced it at home. Take time to peer into their mouth regularly. That can be hard to do with an infant, but try using the knee-to-knee technique: Sit facing another adult with your knees touching and lay your baby in the other adult’s lap to have a good look. At this age, even if they have no teeth, you should be wiping their gums gently with a clean wet washcloth after meals. You can also stimulate their mouth with a small, soft brush. All of this manhandling will prepare them for the professionals.
Tip 3: Prep at home for the visit
Before your child’s first dentist appointment, give them an idea what to expect by talking about it in words that they understand – and that won’t terrify them. Telling them the dentist will “count” or “look at” their teeth is sure to go over better than hinting they have a mouthful of decay to be drilled out. Avoid adding “and it’s not going to hurt,” says Dr. Chung. “Paediatric dentists don’t like those statements because it proposes the possibility of something in the office hurting, and that only contributes to anxiety.” Play “dentist” with a compliant stuffed animal or doll, and read positive-sounding picture books about dental appointments.
Tip 4: Time it properly
Be sure to schedule all dentist appointments for times when your child will be comfortable, rested and in a good mood. “Children have patterns of good and cranky behaviour at different times of the day,” says Dr. Chung. “You don’t want to bring them when they’re hungry or tired.” For obvious reasons, avoid giving your kid caffeine or sugar before the visit. And if you can, arrive early. “It allows children to play with toys in the waiting room and get used to the whole environment.
Tip 5: Keep it positive
You don’t have to be over-the-top gushy, but do keep an upbeat attitude when you’re talking about the dentist, and on the day of the visit. Treat the appointment as something simple, routine and positive. “If you do that, your child is going to have a much, much better attitude towards the dentist and the whole dental experience,” says Dr. Chung. It may help to bring along a comfort item for your child, like a blankie or a favourite teddy.
Tip 6: Take baby steps
Despite your best efforts, it’s natural for your one-year-old to get anxious or upset when they’re in the hot seat. In most cases, it’s likely to pass. But if they just won’t stop screaming, don’t force the issue. It’s better for everyone if you try again another time.
Tip 7: Let your kid tag along with you
Bringing your baby to your own dental appointments may be a good idea, because it can get them familiar with the setting and staff. But first, consider this: Is your child going to share your dentist, or will they see a paediatric dentist who specializes in treating pint-sized patients? Is your dentist’s office kid-friendly enough to make them comfortable? If yes, why not bring your children along during a simple dental visit such as a regular hygiene check-up.
Try these steps, you might find no longer is child scared of the dentist, they might enjoy being called brave and receive all the stickers and goodies from a dental appointment.
About Smiles Kids are a child-friendly dental centre which creates a warm and considerate environment for patients of all ages. Our personable staff regularly visit nearby day care centres and facilitate dental knowledge sessions for pre-school children. In our centre, patients are encouraged to bring in their little ones during their appointments. Kids are free to have fun in the play area or join their parents in the surgery room in some sessions.