No one wants to find out they have a cavity, especially your little ones. And although dentists do everything they can to make sure that dental fillings do not cause discomfort, it isn’t strange for kids to be afraid. Many kids are already afraid of dentists, and getting their first cavity can make getting them to the dentist even more difficult. It is important to help prepare your son or daughter before their filling appointment so that they can handle it. Here are a few tips on how to help your kids when they have a cavity.
When your child is initially told that they have a cavity or two and that they will need a filling they will look to you for an idea of how they should react. Young children often emulate the emotions of their parents, so it is important for you to be calm and positive throughout the process. It is important to help your child understand what they can do better to prevent future cavities, but they should not feel guilt-tripped over having a cavity. Cavities are fairly common among children, and you do not want to add extra pressure. Your dentist can help make recommendations to improve oral health, but young children can be very impressionable and may feel guilty and ashamed of having a cavity.
Your child will likely have many questions. It can be tempting to hide some information from your kids, but psychologically it is more helpful to be honest. Understanding a procedure and putting it in terms that can be easily understood is very important for kids. Your dentist can help answer your kid’s questions and help them feel better about their upcoming procedure. You may choose to downplay a few terms, instead of talking about needles and injections talking about it as a “little pinch”.
If you have stories from your own cavity fillings or other dental procedures, it can be very helpful for your son or daughter to hear about your experience. Not only will it help normalize the procedure, but your child will feel more comfortable knowing that someone they know has already been through it.
A first-time cavity filling is a good opportunity for your child to learn about being courageous. Different kids at different ages will figure out their own unique ways to feel comfortable. Some children will want to ask questions and learn about the procedure, others may want to take a good luck charm or a stuffed animal with them. Encourage your child by helping them find ways to bolster their confidence and encouraging them to be brave.
For more information on fillings please contact the team at All Pro Dental. At our dentistry in Revere, Massachusetts, we pride ourselves on being a safe place for children that helps children overcome their fears and get high-quality dental services. For more information please contact us.
Monday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Tuesday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Wednesday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Thursday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Friday: 10:30am – 6:30pm
Sat-Sun: Closed
