Dental anxiety is real in kids, and it can be one of the toughest things to deal with as a parent. But going to the dentist isn’t optional. Regular dental care is crucial for your child’s health, even when they’re doing everything they can to dodge that appointment.
You have probably already gone down the Google rabbit hole looking for ways to ease dental anxiety. There is plenty of advice out there, like refraining from using words that might cause fear, showing fun educational videos, and all sorts of other tricks.
These strategies can work wonders for younger kids, but if you are dealing with an older child or teen, you have probably noticed that some of these methods do not work as well anymore. Your 12-year-old is not exactly going to be convinced by a cartoon tooth explaining why cleanings are fun.
So what do you do when your older child has outgrown the usual tricks but still gets that panicky feeling whenever they hear the words “dentist appointment”?
Deep Breathing and Positive Encouragement
One approach that works well with older kids is teaching them deep breathing techniques. This is a proven way to manage anxiety that even adults use regularly. Start practicing with your child in the days leading up to the appointment, not just five minutes before you walk into the office.
Show them how to breathe in slowly through their nose for about four counts, hold it for a few seconds, and then exhale through their mouth for another four counts. It sounds simple, but it genuinely helps calm the nervous system. Practice together at home when they are relaxed so it becomes second nature by appointment time.
Pair this with positive encouragement, and keep it realistic. Acknowledge that it might take a little patience and remind them that they have handled new or unfamiliar experiences before and done great. Focus on how proud they will feel afterward, and consider planning something nice to do together once it’s over.
Read more: Here’s What to Do If Your Child Has Dental Anxiety
Use Distractions During the Visit
Distractions can be very helpful for older children, but you’ll need to adjust your approach from what works with younger kids. Headphones with their favorite music, podcasts, or even audiobooks can work really well.
Many dental offices allow kids to use headphones during treatment, and some even encourage it to help children stay calm. The key is finding what works best for your child.
Talk to Your Child’s Dentist
This is one of the most important steps, and it’s one that many parents overlook. Call your dentist before the appointment and have a detailed conversation about your child’s needs. Don’t wait until you arrive to mention it.
Share your child’s preferences and experiences with the dentist. Maybe they’ve had a previous visit that didn’t go as smoothly, or they just feel a bit nervous in new situations. Let the dentist know what makes your child feel comfortable, what interests them, and what helps them stay relaxed.
Your dentist might suggest options you hadn’t considered, such as conscious sedation. This allows your child to remain calm and relaxed while still being awake and able to respond.
It’s not necessary for every visit, but for children who get especially nervous, it can make the experience much easier and more manageable.
Read more: Debunking the Myths About Sedation Dentistry for Children
Be Patient and Stay Calm
Working with older children can require extra patience, especially when anxiety is involved. They might resist your attempts to help, particularly teenagers, who can be more independent about how they handle things. Staying patient and composed helps them feel safe and supported.
If you experience dental anxiety yourself, it’s important to manage your own feelings before the appointment. Children can pick up on your stress even if you try to hide it. Take some time to work through your own worries, or focus on staying calm in the days leading up to your child’s visit.
Dental anxiety is common, but regular dental care is essential. Your child’s dentist is there to help both of you navigate this experience. If you have questions about easing dental anxiety in older children or teenagers, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dental office.
Every child is unique, and we’re here to work with you to find the approach that helps your child feel confident and comfortable during dental visits.