By: Dr Nabihah Dziaruddin

The emergence of a child’s first tooth is a significant milestone, often met with excitement from proud parents. This moment also marks the ideal time for their first dental visit. However, for many children, the idea of visiting the dentist can stir up feelings of apprehension and anxiety. While such feelings are natural and common, the right approach can help ease these fears, transforming dental appointments into positive experiences.

Introducing your child to dental visits shortly after the eruption of the first tooth and ensuring regular appointments thereafter can help them become familiar with the dental environment. This familiarity significantly reduces anxieties in subsequent visits. To make dental concepts more relatable at home, parents can play pretend dentist games. Activities like counting their teeth or demonstrating brushing on a toy make the dental process engaging and fun.

Paediatric dentists

For those seeking specialised care for their children, paediatric dentists are an option. These professionals specialise in treating children, ensuring that the young ones receive care tailored to their unique needs, both medically and emotionally. Paediatric dentists are adept at addressing the specific challenges and fears children might face, offering an environment that’s both comforting and age-appropriate.

Today, many dental clinics are recognising the need to cater to their younger patients. They are creating kid-friendly environments complete with thematic designs like dinosaurs, under-the-sea adventures, and even playground waiting areas. Such engaging themes captivate children’s imagination, diverting their attention and reducing anxiety before their appointments.

The language we use to describe dental procedures greatly influences a child’s perception. By avoiding potentially alarming terms like ‘pain’, ‘shot’, or ‘drill’ and allowing the dental team to use their child-friendly vocabulary, parents can make visits seem less intimidating. Additionally, reading children’s books about dental appointments can familiarise the child with the process, making it seem less daunting.

Parents’ role

Parents play a pivotal role in shaping their child’s attitude towards dental visits. Children often mirror adult emotions, so displaying calmness and speaking positively about dental appointments establishes a reassuring atmosphere. Assuring your child that the dentist is there to help, not harm, can also provide significant comfort.

While rewarding good behaviour with treats, such as a sticker, after a dental visit can be motivating, it’s essential to strike a balance. Using dental appointments as bargaining chips can inadvertently introduce negative associations.

Open communication with the dental team is crucial. Understanding the root of a child’s anxiety allows professionals to employ tailored techniques, ensuring a smoother experience. Creating a positive dental experience for children requires a mix of understanding, preparation, and choosing the right professional guidance. With these elements in place, children’s dental anxiety can be transformed into confidence and smiles.

-- BERNAMA

By Dr Nabihah Dziaruddin is a Lecturer and Paediatric Dental Specialist at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universiti Malaya.