I had a very young client the other day, who clung to his mum’s leg the moment he came in to the room—wide eyes, quivering lip, the lot. “Don’t worry,” I told his mother, “I don’t take it personally!” It’s more common than you’d think—over half of folks in the UK feel a bit jittery about the dentist, and about a third of children worldwide get proper butterflies.
At Park Dental Care in Nottingham, we see it all the time, and I promise you, we’re here to make it easier. If your child’s more scared than excited about a visit, here are five simple ideas that work wonders for my clients—and might just help your little one too.
Getting children comfy with dental trips early on is one of the best things we can do for their smiles. It builds good habits, keeps their teeth healthy, and makes those future visits feel like no big deal.
So why do so many children get nervous?
Many children are naturally wary of anything new. For most, however, they have learnt to feel like that from their parents. Your subconscious feelings are perceived by your children; they may not know what is wrong, but they sense “this is different”. Our natural inclination to reassure can make it worse: “don’t worry, it won’t hurt.” Think of it this way: that is an odd thing to say; you don’t reassure your child before you go shopping! You have just told them that there is something to worry about.
- Have a Chat With Us
I love it when people ask questions—it’s the best way to feel at ease. Tell us what’s worrying your child (or you!), and we’ll walk you through what’ll happen in simple, friendly words—no scary jargon here. If that first trip feels too big, give us a ring on 0115 9101447 and bring them in just to say hello—no chair, no tools, just a chance to see the place. I’ve had children turn from terrified to curious just by getting to know us first. We’ll keep it light and easy—promise!
- Show Them It’s Okay
Kids pick up on everything, don’t they? Even if you’re a bit wobbly about the dentist yourself, try chatting about it like it’s a treat—how it keeps your smile bright and healthy. I’ve had parents bring along a sibling or a grandparent to show how it’s done—popping into the chair for a quick check while the little one watches. It’s like saying, “Look, we’re all fine here!” If you need an extra hand to hold (yours or theirs), bring someone along—we’re happy to have them in the room if it helps everyone relax.
- Keep Their Mind Busy
A little distraction goes a long way. Bring a tablet with their favourite tunes or a calming story—headphones work a treat—or let them clutch a cuddly toy or fidget spinner. I’ve seen kids who were all nerves turn into chatterboxes once they’ve got something familiar to focus on. It’s a small trick, but it makes the visit feel less like a big event and more like a comfy moment.
- Breathe Easy
This one’s so simple, yet it’s magic. I often tell children to take big, slow breaths—deep in, then out like they’re blowing up a balloon, nice and steady. It relaxes their little muscles and slows their heartbeat, and before they know it, they’re feeling calmer. We’ll be right there with them, keeping things gentle, and it’s amazing how much a few breaths can change the mood.
- Turn It Into Fun
Why not make it a game? Read a book about dentists together—I’ve got some great ones in mind—or play pretend at home, taking turns being the dentist with a toy brush. Switch roles and let them check your teeth too! A sugar-free treat after a good visit works wonders too—I’ve seen children bounce out proud as punch with a sticker or a little reward. Celebrate those filling-free check-ups, and suddenly the dentist’s a place to look forward to.
We’re Here to Help
My team’s been looking after nervous patients—big and small—for decades, and we’ve got a knack for turning jitters into smiles. Whether it’s a quiet word to ease their worries or a friendly grin to build their trust, we’ll have your child feeling like a dental superhero in no time. I’ve seen it happen so often—a little lad who wouldn’t let go of Mum’s hand one visit ends up chatting my ear off the next!
At Park Dental Care, we love welcoming new faces, whatever their past experiences. If your little one’s scared—or if you’re just curious about how we can help—give us a call at 0115 9101447. I’d be delighted to chat and get them started on a lifetime of happy, healthy smiles!
