Calming Dental Fears: How to Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety

Posted on April 16, 2025 | First Time

Does your child get nervous at the dentist? If so, they’re not alone! Many kids experience dental anxiety, making check-ups and treatments a challenge for patients, parents and providers. At Blossom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, we want to help! Since April is Stress Awareness Month, we’re sharing ways to ease your child’s fears and create a more comfortable dental visit. A calm and positive experience is key to lifelong oral health, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Understanding Dental Anxiety in Kids

Dental anxiety in children can stem from various factors, including fear of the unknown, a previous unpleasant experience, or sensory sensitivities. Even if your child has never had a negative dental visit, they might still feel apprehensive due to stories they’ve heard or simply the unfamiliar environment. Identifying the root cause of their fear can help you address it effectively.

Tips to Help Your Child Feel Comfortable at the Dentist

1. Start Dental Visits Early

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that children visit the dentist by their first birthday. Early, positive experiences help kids become familiar with the environment, reducing fear as they grow.

2. Use Positive Language

Avoid using words like “pain,” “shot,” or “drill.” Instead, use friendly and encouraging terms. For example, say, “The dentist is going to count your teeth and make them sparkle!” This keeps the experience light and non-threatening. After the visit, instead of asking if it was “scary” or “painful”, tell your child that you are proud of them, and they can do hard things when they are brave! Also remind your child that the dentist’s job is to be part of the team (along with patient and parent) to make sure that teeth stay healthy and strong.

3. Play Pretend at Home

Before a dental visit, play “dentist” at home with your child. Have them open wide while you gently count their teeth with a toothbrush. Let them practice on a stuffed animal. This makes the actual visit feel more familiar and less intimidating.

4. Read Books & Watch Videos About the Dentist

There are many fun children’s books and videos that introduce the dentist in a friendly, engaging way. Some favorites include The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist and Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip. Seeing their favorite characters have a good experience can help ease their own worries.

5. Choose the Right Appointment Time

Schedule dental visits at a time when your child is well-rested and fed—avoiding nap time or late afternoons when they might be cranky. A morning appointment is often ideal for a relaxed and positive experience.

6. Bring Comfort Items

Let your child bring a favorite stuffed animal, blanket, or toy to hold during their visit. Having something familiar can provide a great source of comfort and security.

7. Try Relaxation Techniques

If your child feels nervous before their appointment, encourage deep breathing exercises. Teach them to take slow, deep breaths in through the nose and out through the mouth to help them feel calm. You can also try listening to soothing music on the way to the appointment to create a more relaxed mindset.

8. Lead by Example

Kids take cues from their parents. If you feel anxious about the dentist, try to keep those feelings in check when talking about dental visits. Use an upbeat, reassuring tone to show them there’s nothing to fear.

9. Reward & Praise Their Bravery

Positive reinforcement works wonders! Praise your child for their bravery, no matter how small their steps toward overcoming their fear. You can offer a simple reward, such as a sticker, a trip to the park, or a special treat after their appointment.

The Role of a Pediatric Dentist in Easing Anxiety

At Blossom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics, our team is specially trained to work with anxious children. We use gentle techniques, kid-friendly explanations, and a calm, fun environment to make dental visits a positive experience. Our goal is to build trust and confidence, helping every child feel comfortable in the dental chair. It’s helpful to encourage your child to interact directly with the providers (with minimal parent intervention, when possible), so that we have the opportunity to ease your child’s fear and establish rapport. 

We are uniquely equipped to treat children of all ages with physical, cognitive, emotional, or psychological conditions. Our practice includes a large population of patients with special needs, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety, Down Syndrome, cleft lip and palate, cerebral palsy, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, and many other conditions that can make dental care challenging. The specialized training and experience of our doctors and staff allow us to provide compassionate, personalized care for children who may have previously had limited options or difficult experiences at the dentist.

Let’s Make Dental Visits Stress-Free!

April’s Stress Awareness Month is a great opportunity to address dental anxiety and set the stage for a lifetime of confident, stress-free dental visits. By using these simple strategies, you can help your child feel more comfortable and even excited about their trips to the dentist!

If you have any concerns about your child’s dental anxiety or would like to schedule a visit, contact Blossom Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics today. Our team is here to help make every visit a positive one!