Pediatric dentistry experts offer guidance on managing child dental anxiety

Dental professionals are offering guidance on managing anxiety in children during dental visits. At NoordAs Tandartsen & Mondhygiënisten in Amsterdam, practitioners emphasize building trust through small steps, such as allowing a child to simply sit in the chair without undergoing a full treatment to build familiarity.

Pediatric dentist Shi Wenzhi advises parents to avoid certain phrases that can increase a child's distress. Specifically, parents should avoid using dental visits as a punishment, telling children to close their eyes, or promising that a procedure 'will not hurt,' as children may feel misled if they experience any sensation. Instead, experts suggest encouraging open communication between the child and the dentist and providing positive reinforcement for the child's efforts rather than criticizing their fear.