Ease your child's fears of the Dentist

1. Find A Dentist Who Is Good With Kids: A good dentist really goes a long way when it comes to dental fears. Find someone through recommendations who is good with kids.
2. Explain The Importance Of Oral Health: Have regular conversations about why it's important to brush and floss and visit the dentist. Talk regularly, because then it won't seem so out of the norm to take care of your teeth.
3. Meet And Greet Time: Before your child goes in for their first appointment, have a meet and greet first. Take your child to the office to see the place, meet the dentist and try out the chair before any procedures are done.
4. Make Regular Dental Visits: The more regularly they visit (every 6 months), the less afraid they will be because it will become less unknown.
5. Explain In Terms They Understand: Let your child know what to expect, but in terms they understand. Tell them, or ask the dentist to tell them, what they're doing and what to expect so they won't be so afraid.
6. Don't Share Your Own Fears: A lot of people are not a fan of the dentist, but be careful never to share that with your kids. If you do, it could very well make them more afraid and stressed.
7. Inform The Dentist: If your child is feeling anxious or afraid, let the dentist know. They may be able to help ease their fear and treat them with a little more care.
8. Avoid Scary Words: Kids and scary words don't really get along well. Avoid using words like "hurt" or "freezing" or "shot" with your kids if you think it could make them more anxious.

source: http://www.babble.com/kid/8-ways-to-help-ease-your-childs-fear-of-the-dentist/

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