Many parents think they’re fighting a losing battle when it comes to persuading their kids to look forward to going to the dentist. You’re not alone if you’ve ever had to deal with tears, refusal, or even a full-on breakdown when someone said “checkup.” A lot of youngsters are scared of going to the dentist—but they don’t have to be.

Kids form opinions about dental care early on, and those impressions tend to stick. That’s why it’s so important to help them see dentist visits as a regular, even pleasant, part of life. With the right approach and a little imagination, something your child dreads can turn into something they enjoy.

Here are some techniques parents have found helpful for making dental visits easier and more enjoyable:

Before the Appointment: Get Ready

Get Started Early
Take your child to the dentist as soon as their first baby tooth comes in. The earlier they get familiar with the environment, the more at ease they’ll feel when it’s time for real treatments.

Have Fun Talking About Teeth
Speak about the dentist in a positive, relaxed way. Use picture books, short videos, or songs that explain what dentists do in kid-friendly terms. Seeing happy kids and gentle dentists in those materials can really shift your child’s attitude.

Include Pretend Play in the Prep
Turn your home into a mini “dental office” using toys or stuffed animals. Take turns being the dentist and the patient while using a toothbrush to “check” each other’s teeth. It’s a simple, comforting way to reduce fear.

Choose the Right Time of Day
Schedule the visit when your child is well-rested and fed—avoid nap time or just before meals. Kids are more cooperative when they’re comfortable and not cranky.

Let Them Know It’s Not a Big Deal
Children pay close attention to how adults act. If they see you calm and cheerful during your own appointments, they’ll be more likely to mirror that. If possible, bring them along to one of your routine cleanings so they can see what it’s like.

During the Appointment: Stay Positive and Light

Start with a Positive Attitude
Smile, greet the staff, and show your child you’re calm and confident. Your energy sets the tone—and they’ll pick up on it immediately.

Be Careful What You Say
Skip phrases like “it won’t hurt” or “just a little pinch.” Even if meant to reassure, they can trigger worry. Try something fun and neutral like, “Let’s make your teeth shine!”

Let the Dental Team Take the Lead
Pediatric dentists and hygienists know how to work with kids. Give them space to connect with your child and use their own kid-friendly strategies. Step in only if necessary.

Don’t Say Too Much
It’s natural to want to explain or reassure, but constant commentary can confuse or overwhelm your child. Let the dental team guide the visit, and save your questions for before or after.

Share the Experience
If the clinic uses fun tools, music, or activities, join in! Clap, laugh, and support your child’s curiosity. A little fun helps create a more positive memory.

After the Appointment: Keep It Going

Thank Them for Their Effort
Whether the visit went smoothly or not, praise your child for being brave. A high-five, small reward, or fun outing afterward can reinforce that they did something great.

Stick to the Routine
Make dental visits a regular part of life—every six months is ideal. The more normal it feels, the less stress it brings.

Make Brushing and Flossing Fun Too
Start healthy habits at home. Let your child pick their toothbrush and toothpaste flavor, or make brushing time a mini dance party. Use a sticker chart to track daily brushing and celebrate consistency.

A Last Word
Helping your child feel good about going to the dentist doesn’t happen overnight. It builds over time with each positive experience. But once the fear fades and they see the dentist as a helper, you’ll start to notice more confidence—and fewer tears.

And who knows? You might even hear, “That wasn’t so bad!” on the way home.

Ready to book your child’s next visit?

We’d love to welcome you! Call us today or drop by our clinic to schedule an appointment. Our team is here to make your child’s dental experience friendly, fun, and stress-free.

Your child’s smile starts with a positive first visit—let’s make it a great one.