A trip to the dentist can be a little scary for kids. Here's how to help yours prepare for a sedation dental visit with our pediatric dentist in Tijuana Mexico.

Does your child suffer from dental anxiety? They're not alone. In fact, about 36% of people in the US (including adults) have a fear of dental treatment.

Another 12% have extreme dental fear. If your child is afraid, consider sedation dental treatment.

Read on to learn how to prepare your child for their dental visit with their pediatric dentist in Tijuana, Mexico. After reading this guide, you could have an easier time putting them at ease.

Talk to the Dentist

Before using the rest of these tips, schedule a consultation with your pediatric dentist in Mexico without your child. Use this appointment to learn more about sedation dental treatment and how to ensure your child's comfort. Walking through the process with the dentist can help you prepare yourself and your child.

Otherwise, make sure your child visits their dentist every six months. Regular appointments can help them feel more comfortable with the dentist.

Start visiting while they're young (by the time they're 12 months of age) to help them grow accustomed to appointments.

If you haven't chosen a Tijuana dentist yet, prioritize finding a dentist who specializes in pediatric dentistry. These dentists have years of experience treating young patients. They understand dental anxiety and know how to put young patients at ease.

A general dentist who lacks experience treating younger patients might unintentionally make your child uncomfortable. The cold, sterile environment of an adult dental practice can also trigger their dental anxiety. Instead, find a pediatric practice that offers a kid-friendly environment.

Colorful decor, books, toys, and other kid-friendly features could benefit your child's experience. Even the staff could help your child feel more comfortable about their upcoming sedation dental visit.

Routine appointments will also minimize the likelihood of your child needing more extensive treatment that requires sedation.

Remain Honest

One of the easiest ways to ensure your child feels prepared for their upcoming appointment is to prepare them. Try to avoid blindsiding your child. Instead, let them know what will happen during their dental visit.

Most children don't appreciate being treated like children. When children are informed about the process and why they're doing it, they're more likely to feel comfortable about the situation.

Remember to talk to your Tijuana dentist about what the process entails, before, during, and after. Then, walk your child through the process in a way they'll understand.

Many parents feel the need to protect their children by avoiding intimate details about the operation and sedation dentistry. However, you might not find this technique effective in the long run.

Instead, help your child recognize the benefits of sedation before their procedure.

Lead by Example

Many children model the behavior they see before them. Your child likely looks up to you and therefore mimics your actions and behaviors.

With that in mind, try to lead by example.

First, try to remain calm and confident about the entire situation.

If you appear nervous about sedation dentistry and the procedure, your child will pick up on it. They'll likely feel and behave the same way.

Try to avoid showing them how scared you are. Instead, let your confidence rub off on them.

Fast With Them

For most sedation dentistry procedures, your child will need to fast the night before and the day of their appointment. Fasting ensures the oral anesthetic can be administered. Otherwise, it might not take effect.

If your child needs to fast before their procedure, fast with them. Remember to lead by example!

Fasting with your child will make them less likely to complain. They might also feel more comfortable if they see someone they trust is going through the process with them.

Remember: explain to your child why they need to fast.

Help Them Feel Comfortable

Your child likely requires a serious dental procedure if your dentist is recommending sedation dentistry. As a result, your child might feel frightened about the procedure as well as sedation. Try to make your child feel as comfortable as possible about the procedure.

First, suggest your child wear whatever they want on the day of their appointment. Allowing them to choose what they want to wear can ensure they feel comfortable. Many patients choose to wear their pajamas.

Tell your child to bring their favorite toy with them, too. Encourage them to bring a toy they find comfort in.

For example, they might decide to bring their favorite stuffed animal or blanket.

Before arriving at the dentist's office, use words of affirmation to boost your child's self-confidence. Let them know how proud you are that they're being brave about the procedure.

If you can, have your spouse or another family member drive you to and from the appointment. While they drive, you can sit with your child in the backseat. Remaining close to them can also put them at ease.

Monitor Them Afterward

Talk to your Tijuana dentist for tips regarding caring for your child after their appointment.

After your child comes out of their sedated state, they might react in a variety of ways. For example:

Goofy
Confused
Cry
Scared

Your child might feel sick, too. These reactions are normal. They should subside as the anesthetic wears off.

Make sure to monitor your child following the procedure to ensure they're okay. Keep an eye out for any possible side effects, too.

Prepare for a Sedation Dental Visit: Talk to Your Dentist in Tijuana, Mexico

Help your child feel ready for their sedation dental visit. With these tips, you can feel prepared before a visit to their pediatric dentist in Tijuana, Mexico. Don't forget to schedule an appointment with the dentist beforehand to make sure sedation dentistry is right for your child.

Ready to schedule your child's upcoming sedation dental visit? We can't wait to see you both!

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