Getting kids to the dentist isn’t always an easy task. The fear of the unknown is often inescapable. However others are completely content to go in on a regular basis and get their teeth cleaned. But both groups of kids are often in the same boat when it comes to Dental Fillings in Wichita KS. It’s a new experience and there is some fear associated with the process, especially the drilling. Preparation is the key to helping a child get past a filling with flying colors.
Explain the Procedure Simply
Kids want to know what is going to happen but they don’t need all of the technical details. Mention that the area will be numb and that an instrument is going to work on one portion of a tooth. Depending on a child’s age, it might be appropriate to explain away the process in a more juvenile manner, mentioning that the dentist is helping out the Tooth Fairy to ensure that all of the teeth look great. How much of an explanation provided is dependent on the age of the child.
Remain Positive (Don’t Show Concern)
Kids sometimes look to their parents to see how they should deal with a given situation. If a parent isn’t calm or is explaining the process in a frightened manner, there in no doubt that the child is going to pick up on that. Take a minute to put together a calm persona that will be able to reassure the child that he or she is going to be fine. For some parents, pointing out a filling that they have might even help put a child’s mind at ease.
Make it a Teachable Moment
It isn’t a good idea to make getting a cavity seem like a punishment. Explaining that a cavity formed because he or she didn’t brush enough isn’t ideal. Even with regular brushing, if a cavity shows up in the future, a child may feel bad or frustrated that he or she couldn’t prevent it. Instead, the goal is to promote teeth brushing, flossing, and rinsing in a positive manner.
For more information on bringing your child in for Dental Fillings in Wichita KS, contact Wichita Pediatric Dentistry.
