Taking care of teeth from an early age is very important - every adult knows this. But how to convince a child, especially one who is almost panic-stricken by fear of the dentist's surgery? We suggest how to overcome a child's fear of the dentist.

"Mummy it doesn't hurt anymore" - is the lightest form of avoiding a visit to the dentist. More often, however, there is stubbornness, crying and sometimes even scenes like out of a parent's worst nightmare. What to do then? Here are some tips on how to minimise your child's anxiety and, ideally, prevent it from happening in the first place.

Fear you can avoid

The first mistake parents make is to visit the dentist when there is already a serious problem with a child's teeth. The toddler automatically associates pain with the dentist's surgery, so that before the the next visit, there is fear and resistance.

Therefore, take your child to the dentist before the first dental problems appear. You will gain doubly. Firstly, you will minimise your child's fear of the dentist; on the other hand, you will be able to prevent cavities and thus more serious treatment.

How to care for baby teeth and why it's so important - read our article and find out more.

Another important issue is to take care of your child's teeth from an early age. It is a myth that milk teeth do not need much attention because "they will fall out anyway". This is erroneous thinking that can cause serious consequences when the child is older. Daily care for oral hygiene and proper diet can protect your child from serious treatment at a young age.

A child's fear of the dentist - as a gift from the parents

You are afraid of the dentist and are reluctant to make a appointment. Think about how many times you have mentioned this when your child. Your negative attitude affects them. Toddlers learn by imitation, so be careful not to pass on your phobia to your child.

Some parents make the even bigger mistake of scaring children to the doctor - "If you don't brush your teeth you will go to the dentist". This certainly This will not create a positive association with a visit to the dentist, but will It will only deepen the child's fear of the dentist.

Playing doctor

Before you go with your little one to their first visit, it is a good idea to introduce them to what it will be like. Young children may not understand, so it's best to organise a game of dentist. Let the bowl have a toothache and go with mum to the doctor. The child will then have the opportunity to get used to a situation that is completely new to him.

You will also find many fairy tales and stories on the web on this subject, which show how the little heroes dealt with such a situation.

Nobody likes a lie

"Nothing will hurt". - for the child this is an an unambiguous message "WARNING: it will hurt". Another favourite phrase of parents - "The dentist will just look at it". If, at the same visit, the doctor carries out treatment, the child will feel cheated. It will be difficult to persuade them to come in another visit, even if it is a check-up.

Instead of lying, explain to your child that by regular visits to the dentist will help them avoid drilling, let alone even fewer teeth. Tell him or her what the visit will be like.

The right surgery will reduce a child's fear of the dentist

Before you go for an appointment, check the surgery to where you plan to take your child. Just because your dentist is a great specialist does not mean that he or she will also be perfect for your child. Therefore, choose a practice that has an offer aimed directly at toddlers.

For older children the doctor should explain what he or she will be doing, for younger children he or she can show the equipment and familiarise them with the surgery. If you are worried about your child's reaction make an appointment to adaptation visitduring which they will have the opportunity to see the surgery, but also to meet the staff. This will certainly reduce your child's fear of the dentist.

The staff mentioned and their attitude are very important. That is why it is worth taking a moment and visiting the surgery, even before the appointment. A gift from the doctor - a colouring book, sticker or healthy sugar-free lollipop - will certainly help to overcome your child's fear of the dentist and create pleasant associations.

Fear of the dentist in the child vs motivation of the mother

During the visit itself, support your little one. Tell him that he is brave and that you are proud of him. After the visit, if your child has been good, offer them a present. Remember that this should a reward for good behaviour, not a bribe before the visit.

If you develop healthy habits, including regular visits to the dentist, your child will thank you for it in the future.