Does your child experience some anxiety when preparing to see their pediatric dentist in Cumming, GA? Do they look for excuses not to go or make it extremely difficult to put them into the car on the day of their appointment? Unfortunately, these normal reactions may be exacerbated due to the changes your child’s dentist is making to better protect everyone from COVID-19. Certain safety protocols that must be enforced might seem frightening for your child. So, what can you do to alleviate their concerns? To prepare them for their next dental visit and minimize their anxiety, here are a few fun ways to help them get excited about their appointment.
Establish a Game for Them to Play
The moment your child sees their pediatric dentist and other members of the staff, they might become scared because of the additional personal protective equipment (PPE) they’re wearing. To avoid this type of reaction, establish a game for them to play during their visit. For example, have your child count the number of face masks they see while at their appointment. This will minimize the “scary factors” and instead keep them focused on looking for the objects as part of the game.
Explain What They Can Expect to See
A few weeks before your child’s appointment, call their dentist’s office to inquire about the changes they are making because of COVID-19. Once you have a clear understanding, spend the time leading up to your child’s visit going over what they can expect to see during their appointment. Whether it is showing them pictures of different PPE, talking about the importance of good oral and hand hygiene during this time, or explaining how avoiding viruses and bacteria benefits everyone, maintaining a positive attitude and demeanor will help your little one stay calm and avoid any unnecessary stress as well as make sure there are no surprises when your child walks through the doors.
Role Play at Home
Every young child likes to play make-believe. Practice the steps they’ll need to take from the moment they enter the dentist’s office. From wearing a mask of their own to using provided hand sanitizer to sitting in the treatment room and allowing the dentist to check their teeth and gums, this form of role-playing will enable them to become familiar with what to expect. You can even have other members of your family join in on the fun, each wearing a face mask, gloves, glasses, and other forms of homemade PPE to show your child why there’s no reason to be scared.
Your pediatric dentist understands the difficulties that can come with bringing your child in for a visit during this time, but by working together and reminding your little one that they are in a safe and comfortable environment, this will ensure a successful appointment for everyone.
About the Author
Dr. Susan Podray-Donovan is a board-certified orthodontist who believes in the importance of a healthy smile for young patients. She and her team at Village Pediatric Dentistry strive to create a safe, welcoming, and comfortable environment for all patients. COVID-19 has led them to implement additional precautionary measures to keep everyone protected from the potential spread. As a result, you and your child may notice significant changes. To learn more about what you can expect during your child’s next appointment, visit our website or call (678) 456-5572.