I’m Dr. Brad Greenfield, a family dentist in Lake Orion, Michigan, and I love to see kids in my office. I’m a parent, and so are many of the members of my team, so we enjoy the opportunity to give kids a reason to smile.
Unfortunately, there is one thing that can make doing this difficult. A fear of the dentist is one of the most common fears among Americans, and often, it is a fear that develops during childhood.
A fear of the dentist is the number 1 reason why people don’t have their teeth checked and cleaned regularly. This can be detrimental to your oral health. As a parent, I know you don’t want your child to have health problems down the road. As a dentist, I want to instill healthy hygiene habits in your child now to pave the way for proper development and health throughout their life.
I can’t do this if your child is afraid of the dentist.
Routine checkups and cleanings should be easy, but they can turn into a struggle when your child is nervous. This is where you, the parent, come in.
Children rarely have fears about medical and dental matters on their own. In their minds, there is no reason to fear the dentist…unless someone has planted the idea. Believe it or not, parents and teachers often prompt childrens’ fears about the dentist.
This is all done unknowingly and unintentionally, of course, but it can leave lasting impressions on a child’s mind. If you or someone else has ever said, “If you don’t brush your teeth, they’re gong to fall out” or something similar to your child, it is likely that you have contributed to your child’s negative view of a trip to the dentist.
Here at Lake Orion Family Dentistry, we are kid friendly. In fact, we want to see your entire family here in our office for your dental exams and cleanings. I want your child (and you) to feel comfortable in my dental chair, but I’m asking for your help. Be upbeat and positive when you talk about teeth and the dentist to (and in front of) your child. It will give your child the opportunity of lifelong health and a beautiful smile.
For more information about the children’s dentistry options we offer, please give us a call at (248) 693-6213.
