Tips for Helping Your Child Handle His Dental Anxiety

Parents, your child’s fear of the dentist is real and shouldn’t be discounted. Here at Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry, we have years of experience helping children overcome their dental anxiety and feel safe in our dental home. Here are some tips to help you and your child have a pleasant experience:

1. Take advantage of technology for distraction and comfort. (Music, handheld movies, or headphones).
2. Arrive on time but not too early. Too much time before an appointment can cause more anxiety.
3. Practice relaxation techniques with your child. (Slow breaths, close eyes, stress balls, imagine you are a superhero, share an example of being brave.)
4. Choose a dentist skilled in dealing with anxious patients. (Dr. Botero is!)
5. Visit the Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry office before your appointment.  (For a tour so the child can become familiar with her new dental home.)

Contact us today at (813) 576-0200 to get more tips on how to handle dental anxiety.

How Common is Dental Anxiety in Kids?

Dental anxiety, also referred to as Dental Fear and Anxiety (DFA), is a significant challenge in pediatric dentistry, affecting nine percent of patients. The ages that the anxiety is most prevalent is between seven and nine years of age. Li’l Sunshine Smiles Dentistry understands that dental treatment isn’t just about the treatment of the tooth or oral issue; it is about treating the entire child, ensuring that their psychological health during, before, and after treatment remain positive. We accomplish this by minimizing the pain of treatment and making the whole experience less traumatic/scary. Dr. Botero has years of experience working with children and knows how to accomplish this comprehensive approach to pediatric dental care. Her friendly staff are there to make your child feel even more at ease!

Take a Tour of Our Office!

Helping your child feel comfortable in their new dental home is made easier by giving them the chance to familiarize themselves with it before their appointment. Children do better when they know what to expect and when they have been prepared. Let our team know before your appointment if your child has dental anxiety so we can make extra efforts to put them at ease.

Nitrous Oxide for Dental Anxiety in Kids

Pediatric sedation dentistry can be an effective method for helping soothe a child’s nerves during a more extensive dental treatment. It is particularly helpful for children who are too young to understand the importance of staying still; children who are especially anxious; children that need major dental treatment; children who have had a traumatic dental experience before; and children who have a significant gag reflex.

It’s essential for children to remain calm/still during dental treatment to prevent a dangerous situation. Nitrous oxide–laughing gas–is a safe, viable option. Your child will still stay awake and responsive while breathing in the  nitrous oxide through a small mask placed over the nose. There are no lasting side effects of nitrous oxide treatment.

Call to Schedule an Appointment Today!

Dr. Cat has state licenses to practice dentistry in Colorado and Florida. She is a member of the American Dental Association (ADA), Florida Dental Association (FDA) and an affiliate member of the American Association of Pediatric Dentists (AAPD).  She stays on top of the latest developments in the dental field and attends continuing education courses regularly. You and your child are in good hands with her and our amazing team!

Contact us today at (813) 576-0200 to make an appointment for a visit!