Three Things Your Pediatric Dentist Can Do To Keep Your Child Calm
Finding the right pediatric dental care clinic means more than just finding a dentist who performs excellent dental work. You'll want to make sure that your dentist is able to keep your child calm and comfortable throughout the visit. Be sure to ask your dentist about any behavioral management techniques he or she uses in the office, and ask about any other options for helping to keep your child relaxed during any dental procedures. Your dentist may use any of the following in the office.
Demonstrating Procedures
Before your child's dentist does any work, he or she may calm your child's fears by demonstrating what will happen on a model set of teeth. The dentist should explain what the procedure is and why it needs to be performed. Your child can see the instruments that will be used and get a better understanding of what will happen during the visit. During the actual procedure, the dentist can then explain all the steps again so your child remembers each step. This takes a bit of the mystery out of an exam or procedure, making it easier for the child to understand what is happening.
Distraction
Sometimes, all your child needs is to be distracted during the visit. Some dentists have overhead televisions that play cartoons or popular children's movies. This gives your child something to focus on instead of the dental procedure. If your child has a favorite movie, you may want to ask the dentist if you can bring a DVD copy with you for viewing during the appointment. For older children, the dentist may encourage the use of an MP3 player with in-ear headphones. Your child can listen to favorite music or podcasts, which can help keep him or her distracted.
Positive Reinforcers
Children respond to positive attention, and some dentists may use positive reinforcers during the visit to keep your child's spirits up. This may include the dentist letting your child know that he or she is doing a good job during the appointment, or it may include offering stickers or small toys during the visit for a job well done. You can encourage your child by reminding him or her that there will be a special treat at the end of the visit. You can also add to this by offering a special treat of your own for a good appointment.
Be sure to ask your pediatric dentist about his or her approach to keeping patients calm, as this may help you determine the right dentist for your child's needs.
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