You probably remember dreading trips to the dentist as a child, and you may even dread them now as an adult. Many of us are put off by the needles, pain, and fingers placed in our mouths that are necessary for dental care. Despite the fact that most people don’t really enjoy going to the dentist, everyone has to if they want to enjoy good dental health. And yes, this does include children.
If you are the parent of a child or children who don’t like going to the dentist, you’ve likely racked your brain for any way to calm them down during regular appointments, not to mention special procedures. Children are often especially afraid of things like fillings and braces due to the uncomfortable and lengthy procedures. For kids like these, completing routine dental work can be a challenge. Fortunately, we have some tips for keeping your child in good spirits during any dentist or orthodontist appointment.
Who you choose makes a big difference
There are several strategies for making a child who is afraid of the dentist feel comfortable during their appointment. Choosing an orthodontist that is a good fit is an important part of putting your child at ease. Fortunately, there are kid friendly orthodontists and dentists, who have specialized expertise for treating hesitant children, and their offices tend to be more inviting for them.
The initial examination is the first step in building a relationship with a specialist who will see them for regular appointments. Establishing trust with the orthodontist for a child getting braces will help to calm their nerves.
Making it through the first appointment
Once you have chosen an orthodontist, the next hurdle to overcome is the appointment itself. Your child’s first visit to the orthodontist will introduce them to the doctor and staff who will do their best to make them feel as comfortable as possible. Learning about orthodontic treatment may be a bit scary at first, but it is important in creating a good bite and maintaining their oral health. That’s why it’s important to make your child’s dental care experience as pleasant as possible.
If you are looking for a qualified, kid friendly orthodontist, look no further. Dr. Mario Paz is an orthodontist practicing out of Marina Del Rey. He and his team have extensive knowledge about treating young children and teens, and they offer a wide variety of high quality treatment options. Schedule a consultation to determine if Dr. Paz is the right fit for you and your child.