Teaching Your Children About the Dentist
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Teaching Your Children About the Dentist

I work as a clerical assistant in a pediatric dental office, and I am commonly surprised by the number of children who are scared of the dentist. Many kids think that cleanings will be painful, and they believe they will be scolded for eating sugary foods. Children are also extremely frightful of the noises made by the water spraying tools and the suction devices. As adults, we know that dental cleanings are easy and free of pain. We need to impart this knowledge to our children so they know not to fear the dentist. I have provided blogs that will help you speak with your child about dental care. Good communication, trips to your own dentist, and online videos can assist you. So will good brushing techniques that will make your child proud to see the dentist. Enjoy my articles so you can help your child build oral care confidence.

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Teaching Your Children About the Dentist

4 Tips For Overcoming Dental Anxiety After A Long Break From The Dentist

Alfred Kelley

It actually happens more often than you may think. Someone has anxiety about going to the dentist, so they put off a much-needed checkup. Soon, months turn into multiple years without a visit, and the long break from going to the dentist only makes even more anxious. If this is you, it's time to take action. By actively working to overcome your fear of the dentist and making an appointment, you will regain control of your dental health. Here are a few specific ways to overcome dental anxiety after a long break:

Find the Right Dentist

When you haven't been to the dentist in years, it's best to do your research and really choose a dentist who will help you feel comfortable. One idea is to read reviews and ask for referrals from friends and family, particularly if anyone you know also struggles with a fear of the dentist. Once you have a short list of potential dentists, you can begin by simply talking to each dental office on the phone.

Explain that you haven't been in for a checkup for a long time and that you feel anxious but know you need to make an appointment. You can then gauge their level of customer care and commitment to making you feel comfortable.

Discuss Options for Pain Relief

Once you decide on a dentist and make an appointment, you can ask to speak to the dentist about options for pain relief. Typically, a fear of the dentist is related to the perceived level of pain that accompanies procedures. Most dentists offer anesthesia and numbing agents for procedures like fillings and root canals, but some will also offer this for cleanings if they know you are in need of extra assistance.

Some dentists also offer prescription anxiety medication or sedation that is administered at the beginning of your appointment. Keep in mind that if you are sedated during your appointment, you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home. Be sure to speak up since dentists and hygienists really do want your appointment to be pain and stress-free.

Don't Fixate on Embarrassment

Many people feel embarrassed about their oral health, especially after a long break from going to the dentist. Don't let this be something you fixate on or a reason not to visit the dentist. Dentists are there to help you get your teeth into a clean and healthy state, and they are too focused on this task to judge your oral health.

In fact, considering how many patients a dentist sees in a given month, chances are that your teeth are far from the worst case they have seen recently. Instead of letting your feeling of shame take over, allow yourself to feel proud for being brave enough to go back to the dentist after such a long time.

Consider a Dentist With Spa-Like Amenities

A new trend in the world of dentists is dental offices that offer the serenity and comfort of a spa. These dental offices offer perks that are designed to help you relax and to make the appointment less stressful. For example, your appointment may start with an aromatherapy treatment and a visit to a massage chair.

Some dentists now offer noise-canceling headphones or encourage you to bring your own. Others have tablets or small televisions so you can watch a movie during your appointment. This may help distract you from the sound of the drill and help the appointment go much faster.

By following these tips and making an appointment for a checkup, you will be overcoming your fear and doing something great for your health. Contact a clinic like RTC Dental in your area today to set up an appointment.


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