Talking to a Child About the Dentist

The dentist is almost always perceived as a source of fear for a child. Ominous and clad in a white gown, gloves, and a surgical mask, the dentist is a foreboding figure. The threatening metal instruments laden on the tray next to him do not improve the situation. The smell of alcohol and medicine inside the office gives the impression that there is something wrong, and the dentist is there to painfully resolve it.

What usually makes this the case is that for most children, the first dental problem they experience that requires a visit to the dentist is for a baby tooth that is about to fall out, and the dentist is needed to pull it out. By this time, they have an idea of what it is like to damage or forcefully lose a body part. They know that a wound, a twisted joint, or even something as mild as having a strand of hair pulled out can be painful.

Prior to your visit to the dentist, it is important for the parent to prepare the child. The child has a right to know that the dentist is a friend who helps take the hurt in his teeth away. The child also needs to understand that there can be pain involved, but that the dentist does not mean to inflict it.

During the visit, it is almost unavoidable that the child would still be afraid. The dental office environment is understandably claustrophobic. It helps to be gentle on the child. Your dentist atlanta would be willing to follow your example.

Whether it is for the extraction of a baby tooth or treatment for another problem like tooth decay, the dentist atlanta georgia is sure to carefully explain to the child the procedure. The parent must stay with the child for emotional support. The parent must also assure the child that the dentist is telling the truth.

After the procedure, the dentist atlanta georgia offer sweets to your child as a reward for bravery. If not, it helps for the parent to offer the child a similar reward afterwards like ice cream or candy, depending on the child’s oral health. This way, the child can learn that the dentist is one of the safest places there can be.