Although dental anxiety cuts across all age groups, it’s more common among children. Unfortunately, it has a far-reaching impact on their oral health and well-being. Understanding the various causes of dental anxiety is crucial for both patients and dental professionals to address and alleviate these fears effectively. Here’s a closer look at the causes of dental anxiety and effective strategies for helping kids overcome dental fear.
Causes of Dental Anxiety
Fear of Pain: Many children fear dental appointments due to the pain or discomfort associated with dental procedures. It’s a natural response, but it varies between different children.
Fear of the Unknown: Many children feel anxious about dental procedures because they don’t know what to expect. Lack of information or understanding about specific treatments and procedures can heighten anxiety.
Negative Past Experiences: Previous traumatic or distressing experiences at the dentist can create a lasting impression and contribute to dental anxiety. These experiences may include painful treatments, perceived insensitivity of the dental staff, or a lack of communication.
Vulnerability: Some children experience anxiety due to a perceived loss of control during dental procedures. Being in a vulnerable position, such as lying back in a dental chair with limited visibility and control over the situation, can trigger anxiety.
Needle Phobia: Fear of needles is a common anxiety that can be heightened in a dental setting, especially during injections for anesthesia. The fear of needles can deter children from agreeing to certain dental treatments.
Sensory Sensitivity: Sensory sensitivities, such as the sound of dental drills or the smell of dental materials, can trigger anxiety in some individuals. These sensory stimuli may evoke unpleasant memories or discomfort.
Distrust: A lack of trust in dental professionals contributes to anxiety. To a young child, a dentist is simply an adult poking around in their mouth. Building trust between children and the dental team is crucial in overcoming this anxiety.
Phobia Transfer: Although it’s uncommon, children may develop dental anxiety as a projection of unrelated fears or phobias.
Understanding the root causes of dental anxiety allows dental professionals to tailor their approach, implementing strategies to create a more comfortable and supportive environment for children. Effective management options include:
Communication
Open and honest communication between your child and the dental team is essential. Dentists should take the time to explain procedures, answer questions, and address concerns. Children can understand simple explanations paired with visual aids, and addressing alleviates anxiety.
Trust
Building a trusting relationship between a child and the dental team is crucial. Dentists and staff members should demonstrate empathy and understanding while interacting with them. Establishing trust helps children feel more comfortable and supported during dental visits. The child’s guardian can help bridge the trust gap by offering emotional support.
Gradual Desensitisation
Gradual exposure to dental procedures can help desensitise children to the anxiety-inducing aspects of dental care. Starting with simple, non-invasive treatments and gradually progressing to more complex procedures allows children to build confidence over time. Encourage guardians to schedule frequent check-up visits and consultative appointments to desensitise children from the intimidating environment of the dental office.
Child-friendly Environment
Paediatric dentists create child-friendly spaces that help calm children and lift the face of the dental office. The choice of wall colours and wallpapers is informed by the preferences of the patients. They also wear colourful scrubs and offer treats that reduce anxiety. Some offices have playrooms that make the waiting area less stressful.
Sedation Dentistry
For children with severe dental phobia, sedation dentistry can be a valuable option. Various levels of sedation, ranging from mild sedatives to general anesthesia, can be administered to help children relax during dental procedures. This should be discussed and carefully considered in consultation with the dentist.
Tailoring the management approach to each child’s specific needs and collaborating closely with the guardian can significantly improve the dental experience for children with dental phobia. Talk to your dentist in Maroubra today and start your child’s journey to good oral health.