Dental visits can be nerve-racking for adults (yes, even you who skipped your check-up twice this year), so it’s no surprise that children might not be jumping for joy at the prospect of someone poking around their mouths with shiny tools. As dental professionals, we’ve seen it all—the tears, the tantrums, and the tightly gripped teddy bears. But here’s the good news: dental anxiety in children is incredibly common and incredibly manageable with the right approach.
In this guide, you’ll find practical tips, a bit of humour, and well-sourced advice to help prepare your child for their next (hopefully tear-free) dental visit.
What Is Dental Anxiety in Children?
Dental anxiety in children refers to a child’s fear, nervousness, or stress about going to the dentist. This can range from mild unease to full-blown panic attacks (yes, we’ve had patients try to escape via the coat rack). Addressing it early is key to ensuring your child doesn’t carry that fear into adulthood.
Common signs include:
Tears or tantrums before appointments
Difficulty sleeping the night before a visit
Complaints of stomach aches or headaches (suspiciously timed, of course)
Refusal to open their mouth
Clinging to parents like a Koala in a thunderstorm
A 2017 study from the British Dental Journal reported that around 36% of children experience some form of dental anxiety.
Why Are Kids Afraid of the Dentist?
Children are logical, intelligent, and capable of sensing every hint of panic on their parent’s face. They fear the dentist for several reasons:
Bad Past Experiences: One rogue filling session can leave a lasting impression.
Fear of the Unknown: Dental chairs don’t exactly scream “fun time.”
Parental Influence: If Mum and Dad dread the dentist, children often follow suit. Monkey see, monkey fear.
Sensory Sensitivities: Bright lights, unfamiliar sounds, and minty latex gloves? A sensory minefield for some children.
Imagination Gone Wild: Thank you, cartoons, for making drills seem like medieval torture devices.
How to Prepare Your Child for the Dentist
Here’s where we roll up our sleeves. Whether you’re a parent, carer, or someone trying to avoid being “that parent” in the waiting room, here are steps to ease your child’s dental anxiety:
1. Start Young, Stay Chill
Book their first dental appointment by the age of one or within six months of their first tooth popping through. Starting early normalises dental visits.
2. Use Friendly Language
Avoid words like “pain” or “needle.” Go with “counting teeth” or “making them shiny.” Remember: it’s not lying. It’s strategic wording.
3. Story Time is Golden
Books and videos are fantastic prep tools. Some favourites include:
Peppa Pig: Dentist Trip (because of course)
The Berenstain Bears Visit the Dentist
Hey Duggee Goes to the Dentist
4. Play Dentist at Home
Let them role-play as both patient and dentist. Get a mirror, a toothbrush, and maybe a brave sibling or two.
5. Choose a Paediatric Dentist
Opt for a dentist experienced with children. Paediatric dentists are trained in child behaviour management and have child-friendly clinics. The British Society of Paediatric Dentistry is a great resource for finding specialists.
6. Practice Breathing and Relaxation
Teach them to breathe slowly, count to five, or imagine they’re somewhere calm (like a beach with zero toothbrushes).
7. Bring a Comfort Object
Whether it’s a plush toy or a chewed-up blanket that has survived three wash cycles, let them bring it.
8. Be Calm, Even if You’re Dying Inside
Children are incredibly perceptive. Your panic becomes their panic. Deep breaths, Mum and Dad.
9. Praise and Celebrate
Celebrate small wins. A sticker, a trip to the park, or an episode of their favourite show can go a long way.
What Dentists Do to Help
You’re not alone. We dental pros are equipped with tricks that would make Mary Poppins jealous.
Techniques include:
Tell-Show-Do: We explain, demonstrate, then perform the procedure.
Distraction: TV on the ceiling, cartoons, or in some clinics, VR headsets.
Gentle Communication: We use age-appropriate, reassuring language.
Gradual Desensitisation: Introducing tools and procedures slowly over multiple visits.
What NOT to Do (Seriously, Stop It)
Mistakes we see time and again:
Threatening the Dentist: “Brush your teeth or the dentist will pull them out” is not a good look.
Information Overload: Spare the blow-by-blow of your last root canal.
False Promises: Don’t say, “It won’t hurt at all,” then hand them over to a surprise extraction.
Sharing Your Horror Stories: Kids don’t need to know about your 1998 wisdom tooth saga.
Preparing for Their First Visit
Here are some parent-tested, dentist-approved tips:
Pick a time when they’re well-rested.
Arrive early to let them explore.
Keep your poker face strong.
Arrange a “meet and greet” with the dentist if possible.
Keep brushing and flossing at home part of their daily routine.
Need help creating a kid-friendly routine? Check out our “Daily Oral Hygiene for Kids” guide.
Long-Term Fixes for Dental Fear
Let’s be real: one great visit won’t magically eliminate dental anxiety. It’s a journey.
Here’s how to keep it up:
Consistency: Visit every 6 months.
Rewards: Positive reinforcement works wonders.
Digital Tools: Use dental games or videos to educate.
Stick with One Dentist: Familiarity builds trust.
Talk Teeth Often: Make oral health part of regular conversation.
Final Word from the Surgery
Dental anxiety in children doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. With a little preparation, humour, and empathy, you can help your child see dental visits as a normal (even enjoyable!) part of growing up. The earlier you start, the smoother the ride. And remember: dentists aren’t scary. At worst, we’re just awkwardly enthusiastic about floss.
Got questions or want more tips? Visit our Dental Anxiety Support section for videos, parent checklists, and more.
FAQs About Dental Anxiety in Children
1. What age should I start taking my child to the dentist?
By their first birthday or within six months of their first tooth, according to NHS guidelines.
2. How can I tell if my child is anxious about the dentist?
Look for crying, physical complaints, clinginess, or refusal to talk about the visit.
3. How can I help calm them down before the appointment.
Use breathing exercises, storybooks, and role-play. Stay relaxed and use positive reinforcement.
4. Are paediatric dentists better for nervous kids?
Yes. They are trained in managing anxious children and their clinics are designed with children in mind. Use the BSPD directory to find one near you.
5. What if my child still refuses to go?
Talk to your dentist about a desensitisation plan. Sometimes, starting with a tour or meet-and-greet visit helps. Don’t force it—build up gradually.
Want more expert-backed tips to make oral health easier for the whole family? Subscribe to our newsletter or explore Kids’ Corner for fun resources that make brushing (almost) exciting.
Disclaimer: This article contains a light sprinkle of sarcasm, not intended to offend but to ease the serious business of oral health. Always consult your dentist or dental care professional for specific advice.
