5 Ways to Prepare Your Child for Getting a Filling

It’s estimated that almost half of all children suffer from some sort of tooth decay. If your child needs a filling, you’re likely dreading the experience as much as they are.

But as their parent, you can take steps to make the process easier by preparing them for this common, relatively painless procedure.

Here are five ways to prepare your child for getting a filling.

1. Learn About The Process Together

Much of the reason kids are afraid to get a filling stems from a lack of understanding. They’ve never gotten a filling, after all, so they don’t know what to expect.

You can combat this fear of the unknown by learning about the process together.

Read articles or watch tutorials about what goes on during the filling process. Having someone to learn with will make the ordeal far less frightening for your child.

2. Let Your Children Ask Questions

Be prepared to answer a ton of questions from your little one. Remember to be patient and answer these questions as honestly and thoughtfully as possible.

Expect questions like:

  • Do fillings hurt?
  • What do I do if I’m scared?
  • Will you be nearby?
  • How long do fillings take?

These questions will likely ramp up the closer you get to your appointment.

It’s up to you to start the dialogue. Don’t wait for your child to ask questions, talk about the process and then ask them what else they’d like to know.

3. Have a Conversation with Your Dentist

Answering the above questions can prove challenging at times, especially since you’re not a dentist yourself.

Fortunately, the staff at your local dentist’s office will be more than happy to answer any and all questions you can’t handle. It’s a team process, so don’t be afraid to ask your doctor to take over for you if you don’t have all the answers.

4. Talk About Your Experiences

As a parent, you have a ton of power over how your child views life and its experiences. This includes how they view trips to the dentist, too.

Be open about your own experiences at the dentist and let them know that it isn’t so bad.

If you’re up for a cleaning or need a filling yourself, you may even want to let your child watch to eliminate two birds with one stone. Seeing you go through a similar situation can be quite powerful.

5. Consider the Tone of Conversation

As you prepare your child for their filling, it’s vital that you watch what you say and how you say it.

Taking a cheerful approach is going to help them associate the dentist with happier, more comforting feelings. Likewise, snapping at them or getting frustrated is going to make them feel even more fearful.

Let them know how common it is to be nervous, but reiterate that they’ll be fine.

Use These Tips If Your Child Is Getting a Filling

Above all else, be understanding of your child’s nerves. Think back to when you were a kid and how scary the idea of getting a filling was. A little compassion will go a long way.

And remember, we’re here to help make the process easier.

Whether you have questions or want to book an appointment, you can get in touch today, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.

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