Many children feel anxiety and stress about going to the dentist, but it is not often talked about. The issue with this is, if your child doesn’t cope with the fear of the dentist now, it could end up being an even bigger issue when they are an adult.
What you can do about your child’s dental anxiety?
Dental anxiety in a child can ben seen as stress thinking about the dental appointment, the tools, needle, or drill that will be used, or worrying about a particular procedure.
If you’re a parent of a child who is afraid to go to the dentist, it can be a real struggle. Missing routine check-ups, avoiding cleanings, and treatments.
Unfortunately, avoidance can make the situation worse by compounding the stress. Leading to more fear and continuing this cycle to adulthood.
According to Colgate, Why are some children afraid of the dentist?
Children may fear the dentist for many reasons. Some children’s anxiety rears its ugly head around many experiences, which can include the dentist. Often, parents, parents, or siblings fear the dentist, and the child learns from them.
Other factors that may lead to dental anxiety include:
The memory of a previous painful experience
The sight or feel of the steel dental instruments on their teeth
The smell or view of the dental setting
Avoidance of preventative appointments
Anxiety about the cost of dental appointments
Inadequate preparation for the first dental visi
More and more dentists are recommending IV sedation for children who need dental procedures. While sedation is safe for children, it is important for parents and caregivers do their homework and understand the process.
A Pain And Anxiety Free Dental Experience
The medication IV sedation administers, allows a child to relax enough to undergo treatment, that they would have been to nervous or anxious to sit through. A pain free way to get essential dental care your child needs.
Many times it is the thought of pain that comes along with dental procedures that makes a child afraid. While they may receive nitrous oxide (also known as laughing gas) combined with oxygen and shots of Novocaine, this process is often still overwhelming for many children (and adults).
IV sedation ensures they won’t feel any of the discomfort or pain associated with dental procedure. They also will remember very little, if any, of the appointment. Which means your child won’t feel that high level of anxiety in future dental appointments. Which leads to a lifetime of healthy teeth and gums.
If you are considering IV sedation for your next dental visit, make sure safety is a priority by having a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthesiologist there to bring hospital-level sedation to your dentist’s office.
