A child’s first visit to the dentist can be an anxious experience. Nervousness is a standard expectation when a child is visiting their local dentist, such as their local dentist in Boise, for the first time, but with a little preparation, you can foster a healthy relationship with your new patient and their family. First impressions are important, and building a level of trust and understanding will go a long way to alleviating their fears. The first visit can be difficult, but by building a rapport, you’ll have a much easier time keeping them calm and comfortable in the event that they have to undergo more serious procedures in the future.
Preparation is Key
You have little direct control of your new patient’s expectations before entering your office, but you can help alleviate potential fears by communicating with their parents. When scheduling an appointment with a parent, suggest that they prepare their child for what to expect. Explaining to the child that their friendly local dentist is only there to help and outlining what they can expect in the office can go a long way to making a great first impression. There are a number of children’s books that can help parents get their child excited about their first dental visit. Suggesting they play-act a pretend visit can go a long way to helping the child get comfortable with their first visit.
Create an Inviting Atmosphere
Waiting in the lobby can build up a sense of anxiety in patients, young or otherwise, but creating a welcoming environment can make the wait significantly more variable. Stock your waiting room with books and toys to help children take their mind off of the visit. You may want to allow the parent or guardian into the office with them. Having a familiar face available can reassure younger patients. If the child is particularly nervous, you might suggest letting them sit in their parent’s lap or hold their hand during the appointment. If the parent or guardian is amenable, you can always arrange for a meet and greet before the dental appointment. This will let your patient become comfortable with you in a safe and encouraging environment.
Build a Rapport With Your Patient
You’ll want to build trust with your patient. Be open and honest about what they can expect from their visit, and reassure them that there’s nothing to worry about. Try investing in your patient’s interests. Learn what activities, TV shows, and books they like, and engage their enthusiasm. Don’t tell them that the exam won’t hurt. Nurturing trust in the long term is about honesty, but make sure they understand that any discomfort is temporary and unintentional.
Always Exercise Patience
Younger children are often prone to gagging and choking, but this is often a result of innate nervousness. Allaying their fears and setting clear expectations will help them become comfortable. Let them know what they can expect through every step of the exam, and continue at a pace they’re comfortable with.
Reward Them For Their Bravery
No matter how hard you try to make the experience a pleasant one, remember how hard it is for your patient to overcome their fears. Be sure to encourage their bravery. Stock a cache of treats and small toys as a reward for overcoming that fear.
Dealing with small children can be one of the more difficult tasks for a dentist, but with the right bedside manner and preparation, you can foster a sense of comfort and mutual respect with your younger patients. With the right first impression, you can help them conquer their fears.
About the Author
Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max.
dmi Networking is a provider of HIPAA compliant dental IT in the SF Bay Area and beyond