How to Prepare Your Child for a Filling Appointment

Does your child need a filling? Before you (or they) panic, check out these ideas for preparing for the filling appointment.

Stay Calm

One of the best things you can do as a parent when facing your child’s first filling is to stay calm yourself. If your child sees that you are anxious or stressed, their stress level will increase. Be calm, and talk about the appointment in a positive way.

Be Honest

Your child might have some questions about what will happen at the appointment. Even if you think they may find the information frightening, it’s best to be honest. Answer their questions in a way they can understand, or enlist the help of your dentist in Grand Junction to answer the questions well.

Use the Right Words

Some words, though they may be true, can make anxiety worse. For example, some children feel anxious if you talk about needles. Instead, you can call the numbing shot a “little pinch.” Similarly, instead of saying the dentist will “drill” out the “cavity,” you can say the dentist will “dig up” the “sugar bugs.” These words are truthful, but less anxiety-inducing.

Get Personal

Have you had a filling in the past? If so, tell your child your experience, or if your filling is silver, you can even show it to them.

Bring a Comfort Item

A favorite toy can bring a lot of comfort to a small child. If your child has a favorite toy or blanket, bring it with you to the appointment. You might even ask your dentist if your child could listen to music or watch a show on your phone during the appointment.

Remember, the way you set the stage for the filling will go far in your child’s comfort. If you have questions, the team at Western Slope Dental Center can give you even more guidance.