Newsletter

Dear ,

Fear is a common problem that many of us face when making an appointment to see the dentist. Often we observe at Poindexter Dental that children are fearful from picking up on their parents’ fears. They are scared of being in more pain than they already are, being in an unfamiliar place with weird sounds, strange people, strange smells and even stranger instruments: Often children become overwhelmed. Sitting or lying down, they have people (the dentist and his assistants) standing over them, which is also intimidating.

Because most people see us from so many other oral healthcare views, they forget that our team at Poindexter Dental serves the needs of children as well. When we get to serve a child from their first visit and they are not in pain, we have fewer problems. The Team, including Kester Burnette and Barry Nguyen (our two Hygienists), are accustomed to caring for children. Because of their skills, years of experience, and nurturing presence, children are at ease with us most of the time. When the time comes for dealing with a fearful child we offer various forms of sedation. In the same manner, our Hygienists Barry Nguyen and Kester Burnette demonstrate gentle healthcare delivery when sedation is not used. Sometimes, with the parents’ assistance, we specifically place our hands over the child in a calm, gentle and firm manner to prevent the child from injury. Then we proceed to render the appropriate care necessary.

The absolute best way to ensure a positive experience for everyone is to start the child off early with a non-invasive visit with us. Poindexter Dental sees children as young as 3 months old (believe it or not some have a full set of primary teeth). The parents are educated in coaxing the appropriate behavior and letting the child talk with the entire team (if necessary). This way we form a relationship of mutual understanding (everyone understands mostly everything). While a child may not fully understand everything, we allow them to control themselves and they feel empowered instead of intimidated. While some fear may still exist, if the parent remains calm and collected, even the most invasive procedures can be handled optimally.

At Poindexter Dental, we believe it is of primary importance that parents come to the dentist with their children. Participation in the appointment with the child decreases their anxiety and helps to alleviate their fears. We assure our young patients by having their parents present for their treatment. We do not use restraints in our practice.

The Papoose Board Restrains Patients with their Arms at Their Sides. (Poindexter Dental does not use these restraints.)

We find that reassurance and explanations of our procedures prepare our patients for the best experience.

What are some of the ways parents can help? In the following example, we have a 3-year-old that is having sealants applied by our Hygienist, Barry Nguyen. Her mom is sitting in the dental chair with the child in her lap, reassuring the child that everything is going well and there is nothing to fear. The child was smiling and laughing after the procedure.

When family members are present to give reassurance and comfort, children gain confidence that there is nothing to fear and restraint is generally not necessary. This confidence becomes a normal state of mind for future appointments as well. Then the cycle of fear of the dentist that is often passed from adults to their children is broken (parents generally improve as well).

Hygienist Kester Burnette Demonstrates Proper Pediatric Brushing To a Parent.

What are some other ways that you can help while being present for your child's appointment?

Don’t Teach them to be Scared: One thing you have to realize is that fear of the dentist isn’t inherited. It’s an acquired fear. Ironically enough, parents are often the ones most responsible for teaching this fear to their children. Remember, children don’t know they are supposed to be scared. The first visit to a dentist is the same to them as going to a circus or a science museum. At the dentist there are flashing lights, toys, and masked people all around.
Read a Book: A trip to your local library will provide a number of titles that will help your child understand how the dentist helps children keep their teeth healthy and clean.
Role Play: Help your child develop a positive attitude toward the dentist while having fun at the same time. Plan a make-believe trip to the dentist in your own living room. Keep it light and explain to them what their visit will be like. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, x-ray, or even a filling, knowing what to expect in advance will make the real trip much easier.
Distract Them: Bring along a favorite toy, game, music or movie for your child. Keeping them occupied helps to keep their mind in a happy place.
Positive (Verbal/Nonverbal) Reinforcement: If your child exhibits good behavior at the dental office, reward their good behavior with a trip to the zoo or another favorite spot. Next time they will look forward to going to the dentist!

Regular check-ups and cleanings are the keys to good Dental Health. With scheduled visits for preventative dental care, serious problems and issues can be avoided, and the dental office may become a place not to fear.

Please let us know what you think!

Visit www.Poindexterdental.com

Call 713-734-7611 to make your appointments today! Our hygienists are here five days per week for your convenience!