Fears are a frequent and natural aspect of growing up. Children's phobias span from a dread of the dark to a fear of being away from their parents, particular animals, and nearly anything else, even a fear of going to the dentist.

When children are terrified of the dentist, dental visits can be excruciating. What should a parent do? Children should see the dentist on a regular basis to keep their teeth healthy and growing properly. Dentophobia is treatable, and a calm visit to the dentist with your child is achievable with a little support and hand-holding. Here is a list of six tips on how to help kids overcome the fear of dentists.

1. Start visiting a dentist as early as possible
It's best if a kid sees the dentist as early as possible. This will provide your child a 'dental home,' where they can get all of her dental needs met, whether it's a routine checkup or an emergency. It's great if the first visit occurs when the child is one year old or when the first tooth shows.

2. Play dentist
Playing a pretend game might help you prepare your child for the dentist and address their worries. Pretend to be a dentist by getting out their toothbrush. Act out the appointment, including getting them to sit on a chair, counting their teeth, and cleaning and flossing their teeth. 

Then let them pretend to be a dentist. The part of the patient can be played by you. Giving kids a sense of what to anticipate and introducing them to the concept of a dentist appointment in a safe atmosphere helps to eliminate some of the unknowns.

3. Talk with your child about their fear
Communicating with your child is the only way to figure out what's really bothering them about going to the dentist. Use soothing, caring tones to convey that you're listening closely and want to assist and understand them. Listen carefully to what your youngster says and attempt to understand what they're saying by asking clarifying questions.

4. Emphasize the importance of the dentist
Teach your children that going to the dentist is a need, not a choice and that the dentist will examine their teeth to ensure that they are healthy enough to eat. You might also mention that the dentist keeps cavities at bay and guarantees that his patients enjoy a beautiful smile for years to come. Remember that it's totally natural for children to feel terrified — some are afraid of being away from their parents, others are afraid of the unknown, and still, others are afraid of being hurt. 

A dentist that specializes in treating children will be able to calm your child's concerns and anxieties. Consider seeking a new dentist if your current dentist doesn't take measures to alleviate your child's worries. It's critical that your child has a favorable dental experience throughout his or her early years so that they don't develop a long-term dentophobia.

5. Schedule a pre-appointment visit
Bringing your kid into the dental office to see a pediatric dentist before their dental appointment might make them feel more at ease. This first appointment will allow your kid to meet the dentist and the rest of our team, which will assist establish the essential rapport to ensure your child's comfort.

6. Make a visit comfortable for your kid
Consider carrying a specific toy for comfort if your kid suffers from dentophobia. You can also use their favorite toy to explain what will happen during their visit before they get on the dentist's chair. This will make children feel more at ease, and they will be less apprehensive about having their teeth inspected and cleaned.