Is your child fearful of dental visits? Maybe they cling to you in the waiting room, cry before the appointment, or refuse to open their mouth once they’re in the chair. 

While dental anxiety in children is common, if left unaddressed, it can lead to delayed care, worsening oral health, and a future reluctance to visit the dentist. 

The good news? Dental anxiety is something parents and pediatric dentists can work through together.

In this post, our Red Deer pediatric dentists explain what causes dental anxiety in children, the signs to watch for, how dental anxiety differs from dental phobia, and, most importantly, what you can do to help your child feel more comfortable with visits. 

Is It Normal to Be Scared of the Dentist?

Absolutely. Just like adults, children can feel anxious about unfamiliar situations. A dental office introduces new people, unfamiliar sounds, bright lights, and the possibility of something happening they don’t fully understand.

Some nervousness before a dental appointment is perfectly normal, especially during a child’s first few visits.

The goal isn’t to eliminate every ounce of anxiety. Instead, it’s to help your child develop positive experiences that build trust and confidence over time.

Interestingly, research, such as a study published in the journal Children, shows that kids who begin visiting the dentist early and continue with regular preventive check-ups are significantly less likely to develop dental fear than children whose first visits happen later or only when they’re experiencing pain.

That’s one of the many reasons the Canadian Dental Association recommends scheduling a child’s first dental visit by age one.

Dental Anxiety vs. Dental Phobia: What’s the Difference?

People often use these terms interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.

Dental Anxiety

Dental anxiety is a feeling of nervousness, stress, or worry before a dental appointment.

Children with dental anxiety may:

• Feel uneasy about visits
• Ask lots of questions
• Cry or become clingy
• Be hesitant to sit in the dental chair

With reassurance and patience, the majority of kids eventually overcome their jitters. 

Dental Phobia

A dental phobia is much more severe. Children with a dental phobia experience an intense fear that can prevent them from receiving necessary dental care altogether. 

They may become extremely distressed at the thought of visiting the dentist or even have panic attacks. 

Fortunately, true dental phobia is much less common than dental anxiety, especially in kids. 

What Causes Dental Anxiety in Children?

Many parents assume dental anxiety only happens after a bad dental experience. While that can certainly be the case, it’s not the only cause. 

Some common contributors include:

An Unfamiliar Environment

For young children, walking into a new place filled with unfamiliar sounds, smells, and equipment can be overwhelming.

Fear of the Unknown

A lot of children become anxious because they don’t know what to expect. That’s why pediatric dentists spend so much time explaining things in age-appropriate ways before beginning treatment.

Previous Painful Experiences

If a child has had a toothache, a dental injury, or an uncomfortable dental procedure, they may start associating dental visits with pain. 

Research has found that children who have experienced painful dental treatment or frequent toothaches are more likely to develop dental fear.

Parents’ Own Dental Anxiety

Children are incredibly observant. If they hear parents talking about how much they dislike the dentist or notice adults appearing nervous before appointments, they can assume there’s something to fear.

A review of 43 studies from around the world published in Evidence-Based Dentistry found a significant relationship between parental dental anxiety and dental anxiety in their children. This was most evident in kids under the age of 8. 

Keeping conversations calm and positive can make a bigger difference than you may realize. 

Negative Stories or Media

Television shows, movies, siblings, or classmates sometimes portray the dentist as scary or painful. Even if those portrayals aren’t accurate, they can shape a child’s expectations.

What are the Signs a Child May Have Dental Anxiety?

Every child expresses anxiety differently. In some kids, tantrums and tears make it pretty obvious, while for others, parents might not even realize their little one is fearful. 

However, in general, common signs of dental anxiety in children include:

• Crying before or during appointments
• Clinging to a parent
• Refusing to sit in the dental chair
• Becoming unusually quiet or withdrawn
• Complaining of a stomachache before appointments
• Having trouble sleeping the night before
• Asking repeated questions about whether something will hurt
• Refusing to open their mouth during treatment

How to Deal With Dental Anxiety: 7 Ways Parents Can Help

Here’s how to manage dental anxiety for kids or at least minimize their nervousness. 

1. Start Dental Visits Early

One of the most effective ways to prevent dental anxiety is to start dental visits early.

As we mentioned earlier, research has shown that children who begin seeing a dentist before age two and continue attending regular check-ups are significantly less likely to develop dental fear later in childhood. 

2. Talk About the Dentist Positively

Avoid words like:

• Shot
• Needle
• Drill
• Pain
• Hurt

Instead, explain that the tooth doctor is going to count their teeth, make sure their mouth is healthy, and teach them how to keep their smile strong.

3. Read Books About Going to the Dentist

Reading children’s books about dental visits helps make the experience feel familiar before your child ever walks through the door.

4. Schedule Preventive Visits Instead of Waiting for Problems

If the first trip to the dentist happens because your child already has a toothache, they’re more likely to associate dental visits with discomfort. Regular dental check-ups let children get used to the office when nothing hurts.

5. Bring a Favourite Comfort Item

A beloved stuffed animal, blanket, or small toy can provide reassurance during the appointment.

6. Give Your Child Small Choices

Offering simple choices, such as whether they’d like to hold their teddy bear during the appointment or where they’d like to sit in the waiting room, gives kids a sense of control. 

7. Choose a Pediatric Dentist

Pediatric dentists receive specialized training not only in children’s oral health but also in child behaviour and communication.

We know how to introduce instruments, explain procedures in terms kids can understand, and move at a pace that helps children feel more relaxed. 

How Do Pediatric Dentists Help Children Feel Comfortable?

At Brush Floss Dentistry for Children, we know that no two kids are alike. Some children are naturally outgoing and excited about new experiences. Others need a little more time to warm up.

That’s why we meet every child where they are, tailoring each visit to their unique personality and needs. By moving at their pace, we’re able to gradually build trust and rapport. 

As board-certified pediatric dentists, Dr. Arash Goshtasby (aka Dr. Gosh) and Dr. Cameron Grant have advanced training in caring for children, including those with dental anxiety and special health care needs. 

In fact, Dr. Gosh completed his pediatric dentistry residency at a Level 1 pediatric trauma hospital, where he treated children experiencing dental emergencies and other high-stress situations. That background helped shape the calm, compassionate approach he brings to every appointment.

Our team also uses a variety of behaviour guidance techniques to make dental visits less intimidating for children of all ages. 

We Talk to Kids on Their Level

We explain everything in simple, age-appropriate language (we’re not afraid to get silly). By helping children understand what’s happening, we take away much of the mystery that often fuels anxiety.

We Show Before We Do

One of the most effective behaviour guidance techniques is called Tell-Show-Do.

First, we explain what we’re going to do. Next, we show your child the instrument and demonstrate how it works in a non-threatening way. Finally, once they’re comfortable, we perform the treatment.

This step-by-step approach gets kids involved in the process and ensures there are no surprises. 

We Celebrate Success

Positive reinforcement goes a long way. Whether your child opens wide, sits still for a few extra seconds, or simply makes it through their first appointment, we’ll celebrate those victories. 

By calling out small successes, kids feel proud of themselves and excited to come back. 

We Create a Kid-Friendly Environment

Everything about our practice is designed with children in mind. From our caring team to our fun decor to our gentle approach, we work hard to create an environment where kids feel welcomed, respected, and safe.

For many children, especially those who begin visiting us at a young age, our office becomes another familiar place filled with friendly faces.

Does Laughing Gas Help With Dental Anxiety?

Parents often ask: Does laughing gas help with dental anxiety? The answer is yes, it can. Nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, is a safe, mild sedative delivered through a nasal mask that induces a relaxed, euphoric feeling. With laughing gas sedation, kids are still awake and able to respond.

It can be especially helpful for kids who:

• Are afraid of dental treatment
• Are very young and wouldn’t tolerate a procedure well
• Have a strong gag reflex
• Need longer appointments 
• Have difficulty sitting still

One of the biggest benefits of laughing gas is that it works quickly and wears off quickly, so most kids can go back to school or return to their normal activities right after their appointment.

At Brush Floss Dentistry for Children, we don’t automatically resort to laughing gas or pressure parents into it. We believe the best way to manage dental anxiety is by combining gentle behaviour guidance, positive experiences, and open communication with families. Nitrous oxide is just another tool we can use when it’s appropriate.

When Is General Anesthesia Recommended?

For some children, staying awake during dental treatment isn’t realistic or in their best interest. In these cases, we may recommend general anesthesia. 

General anesthesia is sometimes used for kids who:

• Have extensive dental treatment needs
• Experience severe dental anxiety or dental phobia
• Are very young and unable to cooperate during treatment 
• Have special health care needs that make certain procedures difficult or unsafe

Under general anesthesia, your child will sleep comfortably, which often enables our pediatric dentists to finish multiple procedures in one visit. 

If you do opt for general anesthesia, our team will carefully review your child’s medical history and treatment options, explain what to expect, and answer any and all questions you have before moving forward.

A certified anesthesiologist will administer general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility and monitor your child throughout the procedure to ensure your child’s safety. 

When Should You Talk to a Pediatric Dentist About Dental Anxiety?

Our pediatric dentists have seen it all. You don’t have to worry that we’ll be annoyed by your child crying or insulted if they won’t get in the chair. Our team knows how to handle situations like this and put kids at ease. 

But if you know your child has dental anxiety, they’ve already had a difficult experience, or they require specific accommodations, please feel free to fill us in ahead of their appointment. We’re here to help. 

Ultimately, building positive experiences can change how your child feels about the dentist for years to come.

Dental Anxiety in Children: The Bottom Line

Dental anxiety in children is common, and it doesn’t mean you’ve done anything wrong as a parent.

With the right approach, most kids will eventually feel right at home at the dentist. Starting visits early, keeping appointments positive, and partnering with a pediatric dental team that understands child behaviour can make all the difference. 

Remember, our goal isn’t just to help your child get through one appointment; it’s to help them build a healthy relationship with dental care that lasts a lifetime.

Experience Fear-Free Dentistry for Kids in Red Deer

At Brush Floss Dentistry for Children, we’ve helped countless kids, including those with dental anxiety, love going to the dentist. 

Whether your child is coming in for their very first visit or needs extra support feeling comfortable, our board-certified pediatric dentists are here to provide patient, compassionate, kid-friendly care every step of the way.

Ready to help your child feel more confident at the dentist? Give us a call at (587) 813-5913 or book an appointment online today.