Is your child afraid of visiting your Middletown pediatric dentist? A lot of people fear visits to their dentist but it is important to understand that dentists are trained professionals who only want to help a person maintain healthy teeth and gums. And, just like adults, children too, often fear their dentist’s appointments. However, there is hope for them!
Children’s fears about going to their dentist are slightly different than that of adults because they have less experience with these appointments. However, a pediatric dentist may be able to help your child with those fears that they have. Find out more below as we outline how pediatric dentistry can help!
Pediatric Dentists
What is a pediatric dentist?
A pediatric dentist is a dental professional who specializes in caring for children’s teeth and gums. While they do undergo typical dental training, they also have an additional two to three years of pediatric services under their belt. During these two to three years, pediatric dentists study all things related to a child’s dental health.
Pediatric dentists will work on an infant’s first tooth all the way through their adolescent years. Children of all ages can always visit a general or kid-friendly dentist, but a pediatric dentist only specializes in children’s teeth, so there are added advantages.
Pediatric dentists and children’s fears
Children’s fears regarding dentists may seem silly to parents but ultimately, they are real. And, dealing with them can be difficult to overcome because often times, the child is just plain afraid. But, pediatric dentists really can be of help regarding those fears.
A fun office environment
One of the greatest ways that a pediatric dentist can help a child be less fearful is by having an office environment that is fun. A pediatric dentist’s office is almost always going to be decorated with fun and appealing things like stuffed animals, cartoon characters or other friendly-looking creatures. Children respond well to things like this, which can help them feel more comfortable and less fearful.
Patience
Because pediatric dentists undergo additional training in working with children, they are able to provide a more patient experience for the child. Children can get fussy or nervous when they are afraid, but a pediatric dentist will be able to take as much time as necessary to make help them warm up to the office setting.
An engaging appointment
Another way that a pediatric dentist can help your child with their fears is by providing an engaging appointment. This may include letting the child see and touch the dental tools so that they realize that they aren’t as scary as they may think. Another engaging act could be using the tools on the parent as an example of how easy and pain-free they are.
Talk to a pediatric dentist today
Ultimately, it is a good idea to talk with a pediatric dentist about ways that they can help your child be less fearful. The additional training that pediatric dentists undergo does go a long way with children but it can be helpful to consult with them in order to receive further advice.
Give us a call or stop by so that we can help you today!
Request an appointment here: https://www.hvkidsmiles.com or call Hudson Valley Pediatric Dentistry at (845) 363-4177 for an appointment in our Middletown office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Pediatric Dentist.
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