Your Fear of the Dentist Can Get Passed On to Your Children

 

Parents who have anxiety visiting the dentist need to keep it to themselves to avoid passing it on to your children.  According to a study by researchers from Rey Juan Carlos University of Madrid, the "emotional
transmission" or fear of the dentist is passed on from parent to child.  "Along with the presence of emotional transmission of dentist fear amongst family members, we have identified the relevant role that fathers play in transmission of this phobia in comparison to the mother," the study said.  Turns out the investigators found that the father's feelings about going to the dentist play a key role in whether a mother's fear of the dentist will be passed on to their children.  The findings show the need to involve parents-especially fathers- in efforts to prevent children from fearing the dentist.

Everyone knows that children are impressionable, and many people who avoid dental care as adults recall traumatic experiences at the dentist as children.  The absence of routine dental care can cause painful infections of the teeth and gums, broken and discolored teeth, and bad breathe.  With all the new advances in dentistry, neglecting your teeth can now almost always be avoided. Our team at K&L Family Dental suggests the following to make sure your children are relaxed during their trips to the dentist.

-Make sure your dentist likes seeing children.  Patience and care is mandatory when seeing children.
-Set a good example.  Take your child with you to introduce them to the environment.  Flash them a happy, healthy smile as soon as your done!
-Read a dental book for children to better prepare them to the dental office environment.
-Children need to know how important it is to take good care of their teeth and gums, just like going to the doctor to stay healthy.  Tell them the dentist is there to make sure they have healthy teeth for the rest of their lives!
-Schedule a morning appointment when children tend to be rested and cooperative.
-NEVER bribe your child to go to the dentist or use the visit as a punishment or threat. Your child needs to understand that having their teeth checked is good for them.
-Bring children's favorite toys, music, etc. during the dental appointment.

At K&L Family Dental we encourage parents to bring their children to the dentist by age two, earlier if there is noticeable discoloration of baby teeth or if the child is signaling pain.  If dental treatment is required, we usually start with the procedure that will be easiest for the child to tolerate.  We also consider conservative treatment for children's baby teeth, so that it is less involved and takes less time.  We often use the television in our treatment room  to help children cope with the clinical setting of the dental office and distracts the child during treatment.

If you're looking for a great dental office near Winfield, IL, we always welcome new patients.  Please visit us at www.klfamilydental.com or call our office at 630-653-7700.