How to Help Your Kids with Dental Anxiety

young girl holds up a giant toothbrush at the dentist office.

Dental anxiety is a common problem for patients of any age. However, avoiding the dentist and skipping treatments due to dental anxiety can lead to oral health problems that may require more invasive dental work. If your child struggles with dental anxiety, we’re sharing three tips to help!

1. Start Dental Care Early

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends parents take children for their first checkup with a pediatric dentist after their first tooth sprouts or by their first birthday. Not only does this teach you how to care for your child’s smile until they are old enough to brush, but it also helps children get comfortable in the dental setting and feel less anxiety in the future.

2. Tour Our Office

We know a lot happens in a dental office. If your child is not a fan of making friends with others or curious about things they see, ask about staging a meet and greet to get to know us. Our team understands that young children may want to ask questions about our technology or feel more comfortable returning to a familiar face and would be happy to meet them!

3. Bring a Toy or Blanket

Does your child have a favorite toy or blanket? Bring one of their favorite items to allow your child to play in the waiting room or accompany them in the dental chair. You can play along or let them know this item is helping them through their visit.

Are You Looking for a Kid-Friendly Dentist?

Is your child struggling with dental anxiety or has expressed fear of the dentist? We can help. At Midtown Dental, we offer dental care for kids in a comfortable environment. With the right planning and environment, dental visits can become an easy and enjoyable experience for both kids and parents. Give our office a call to schedule an appointment!

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Our Patient Reviews

"Dr. Hunsaker and his staff are so nice! Dental work is tricky for me with some medical conditions I have, and they genuinely listened to my concerns and made sure I was comfortable. I was super nervous but they did a great job and I had no pain! Also very reasonably priced. Thank you for being amazing!"
- Fallon R.

Just took my boys to Dr. Hunsaker this morning. First time there and we will definitely be patients of his for life! Such a great experience all around! Nice friendly staff and Dr. Hunsaker was very personable and took the time to address all my concerns. I'm so happy I gave this office a try and that I now have a permanent dentist office for my family!
- Tracy H.

I truly love my Dentist. He is kind, patient and cares. I recommend midtown dental to everyone in the valley. This is the best Dentist ever. Anytime I have an emergency they try and fit me in as soon as possible. The staff is so kind and gentle they make you feel comfortable.
- Daisy A.

"Had a wonderful experience at Midtown Dental. Betsy did all my X-rays and cleaning and was awesome - so friendly and easy to talk to. Dr. Hunsaker was so kind and easy going - answered all of my questions. I didn’t feel rushed or like another paycheck for him - he was genuine and kind. Thrilled to have found a dentist office I want to stick with for the long haul."
-Ashley A.

Dr. Hunsaker and his team are gems! They were very accommodating and understanding of my tight schedule and were able to get me squeezed in and taken care of!
- Jailene V.

Dr. Hunsaker and his team at Midtown Dental are amazing! They have very reasonable prices and are very down to earth. I really appreciate how quickly they try to get my family and I on the schedule for cleanings and treatment. I definitely reccomend this office!!
- Emily W.

Midtown Dental

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