Fear of the dentist is very common in childhood and, if not treated properly, can be a lifelong fear. At Clínica del Pinospecialists in paediatric dentistryWe know that the key is prevention, education and creating a positive experience from the first visit.
In this article we tell you how to help your children lose their fear of the dentist and how we work in our clinic to make children feel safe and calm.
Why are children afraid of the dentist?
Fear of the dentist is often caused by:
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Previous negative experiences (pain, invasive treatments).
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Fear of the unknown (instruments, sounds, smells).
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Anxiety transmitted by parents.
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Stories heard from other children or adults.
👉 The first visit is crucial. That is why we recommend that it is done before the first year of life or when the first tooth appears.
Strategies to avoid fear of the dentist in children
1. Start young
Taking your child to the dentist early helps normalise the experience and helps them see check-ups as routine.
2. Explain positively
Avoid phrases like "it won't hurt" or "don't be scared". It is better to say: "The dentist will help you to make your mouth stronger"..
3. Choose a specialised paediatric dentist
The paediatric dentist is trained to treat children with communication techniques and patience. In our clinic we use a language adapted to each age group.
4. Progressive adaptation techniques
At Clínica del Pino we let children get to know the practice, the instruments and the team before any procedure is performed.
5. Reinforce with positive experiences
Rewarding the child's bravery with words of encouragement or small gestures helps the visit to be remembered in a positive way.
How we work at Clínica del Pino (Calpe)
In our dental clinic in Calpe we apply a close and tailored approach:
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Pleasant atmosphere and warm treatment.
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Techniques of playful adaptation to familiarise children with the practice.
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Painless treatments thanks to local anaesthesia and, if necessary, sedation.
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Constant communication with parents to accompany the child at all times.
In addition, we work in coordination with other specialities, such as the orthodontics in CalpeThe programme provides comprehensive care from infancy to adulthood.
Benefits of fear-free paediatric dentistry in Calpe
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Children with greater confidence in their dental health.
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Better prevention of caries and diseases from an early age.
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Reducing the risk of dental phobia in adolescence and adulthood.
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Positive experiences that make children go to the dentist without resistance.
Frequently asked questions about paediatric dentistry in children
When should the first visit to the paediatric dentist take place?
Before the first year of life or when the first tooth erupts.
How can you prepare a child to go to the dentist?
With simple and positive explanations, and conveying confidence.
What happens if my child does not cooperate in the consultation?
Progressive adaptation techniques are available and, in some cases, conscious sedation can help.
👉 For more information, you can visit the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD)an international organisation specialising in children's dental health.
Conclusion
Fear of the dentist in children is a challenge, but with prevention, patience and the help of dental specialists, it can be overcome. paediatric dentistry in Calpecan easily be overcome.
At Clínica del Pino (Calpe) we offer a child-friendly environment, with a positive and professional approach so that dental visits become pleasant and educational experiences.