Many children start crying the moment they hear about the dental clinic and cling to their parents. This is a natural reaction, and parents can help their child fear it less with a few simple steps.
- Fear of the dentist is a very common reaction in children, and parents do not need to be overly worried.
- Do not use the dentist to threaten a child, and do not promise that nothing will ever hurt.
- Early visits before any pain help children get used to the clinic gradually.
- Introduce each step slowly, praise your child afterwards and do not force them when they are overwhelmed.
Why are children afraid of the dentist?
The reasons are easy to understand: an unfamiliar place, strange sounds and smells, lying back with the mouth open for a long time, or frightening stories told by adults. Sometimes a child has also had an uncomfortable experience before. Fear is normal and parents do not need to worry too much.
How should parents prepare their child?
- Speak briefly, gently and honestly: for example, "the dentist will look to see if your teeth are healthy". Do not promise that nothing will hurt if you are not sure.
- Never use the dentist as a threat: saying "if you do not brush, the dentist will pull all your teeth" creates lasting fear.
- Pick a good moment: go when the child has eaten, slept well and is not too tired.
- Bring a familiar item: a soft toy or a favourite book helps the child feel safe.
Visit early, before the teeth hurt
If a child only sees a dentist once they are in pain, the first experience will be tied to discomfort. Short, gentle check-ups, on the other hand, help children get used to the clinic gradually. You can read when to bring a child for the first dental visit.
What parents can do during the visit
- Stay calm and keep your voice gentle, and avoid showing worry in front of your child.
- Let the dentist talk directly to the child and explain each step in simple words.
- Introduce things step by step, for example looking at the tools first, letting the dentist count the teeth, and only then moving on to any treatment.
- Do not force a child who is overwhelmed with fear. You can pause and try again next time.
After the visit
Praise your child for being brave, even if they only managed to sit in the chair. A kind word or a small toy helps the child remember that going to the dentist can be pleasant. Avoid rewarding with sweets, which can harm the teeth.
Visiting Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa
At Nha Khoa Kỳ Hòa patients are seen in order by queue number. Parents can call the hotline 028.3868.1097 to ask about quieter hours, or come in person during working hours at 266A - 268, Đường 3 Tháng 2, Phường Hòa Hưng, Ho Chi Minh City. If your child already has a cavity, read whether a decayed baby tooth needs a filling and whether baby tooth extraction hurts.
Frequently asked questions
Is it a problem if my child cries and refuses to open the mouth?
That is a natural reaction. Parents should not force the child. The visit can pause so the child gets used to things step by step and tries again next time.
Should I say it will not hurt to get my child to go?
No. Untrue promises can make children lose trust. Explain honestly and briefly, and let the dentist talk with the child.
When should a child start going to the dentist?
It is good to introduce children to regular, early check-ups even when nothing hurts. Early visits help find cavities while they are still small.