My son has always gone to my dental office and done fine. He’s only just needed cleanings and they’re pretty easy. This last appointment, however, the dentist told him he had a cavity and needed a filling. He was going to do it right then but my son freaked out when he pulled out the needle. I was taken completely by surprise because he’s 9 and I thought he’d be more mature than that. He seems to be afraid of the shot. The dentist just let it go and didn’t work on his cavity. Is there a way to help a child with dental anxiety?
Catherine.
Dear Catherine,
Helping Children with Dental Anxietiy takes an Understanding Dentist
It sounds like your dentist is not that experienced with children. I don’t know any pediatric dentist who’d just pull out a needle without preparing a child ahead of time. It’s not uncommon for children to be afraid of the dentist when it comes to shots and cavities.
See if your dentist offers some type of dental sedation. I’d start with the lowest form of sedation which is nitrous oxide. It’s sometimes called laughing gas. It’s just a nose piece that will be placed on him and allow him to breathe in the gas. It will relax him. Most children just fall asleep. Then once the procedure is done, they simply turn up the oxygen and he’s good to go.
Pediatric or General Dentist
He doesn’t necessarily have to see a pediatric specialist. There are plenty of general dentists who enjoy treating children and are good at working with them. If you’re happy with your current dentist, that’s fine. But, if he has trouble relating to children, it may be in your son’s best interest to switch.
General dentists do learn about pediatric dental care and are qualified to treat children. If there was ever an issue which came up requiring a specialist they can just give you a referral.
Don’t put off getting his cavity filled. These things can blow up on him quickly and turn into a tooth infection. Then you’ll need an emergency dental appointment. That will only add to his anxiety.
This blog is brought to you by Auburn, AL Family Dentist Dr. Raymond Bolt.