November 13, 2025
Whether you are preparing for your own dental appointment or helping a child who is scared of the dentist, dental anxiety is very common. Both children and adults can experience fear of the dentist, and understanding it early helps build lifelong healthy habits.
This guide explains what dental anxiety is, why many kids struggle with it, and practical strategies to help children feel more confident at the dentist.
What Is Dental Anxiety?
Dental anxiety refers to feelings of fear, stress or nervousness related to dental care. Kids and adults alike may feel anxious about dental visits for different reasons. Children may be nervous because the dental office feels unfamiliar. Adults may have had past negative experiences or worry about discomfort.
When dental anxiety is not addressed, patients often avoid appointments, which can lead to more serious dental issues over time.
What Causes Dental Anxiety in Kids?
There are many reasons why a child might develop a fear of the dentist or feel anxious enough to say, “I’m scared of the dentist.”
Common causes include:
- A previous uncomfortable or negative dental experience
- Sensitivity to the sounds, sights or smells of a dental office
- Picking up on a parent's dental anxiety
- Feeling a lack of control during treatment
- Not understanding what will happen during the visit
- Natural shyness or a personality prone to anxiety
Recognizing these causes helps caregivers and dental teams create a more relaxed and positive experience for kids.
How Can You Help Your Child Overcome Dental Anxiety?
Below are five effective strategies to help children overcome fear of the dentist and feel more comfortable during appointments.
1. Prepare Ahead and Use Positive, Age Appropriate Language
Talk to your child about what the visit will be like using calm and simple language. Describe the dentist as someone who counts their teeth and helps keep them strong. Avoid negative words and keep explanations light and reassuring to reduce fear of the unknown.
2. Choose the Right Timing and Bring Comfort Items
Scheduling the appointment when your child is rested and not rushed can make the experience smoother. Bringing a favorite toy, blanket or stuffed animal can provide comfort and help the child feel more secure in the new environment.
3. Role Play the Visit and Use Visual Aids
Practice a pretend dental visit at home. Let your child play dentist by checking the teeth of a stuffed animal or taking turns being the patient. Show them photos or simple videos of a dental office so the environment feels familiar before the real appointment.
4. Stay Calm, Positive and Use Rewards
Children often mirror their parent's emotions. Staying calm and positive helps them feel safe. Praise your child for being brave and consider offering a small reward after the visit, such as a sticker or choosing the bedtime story.
5. Use a Trusted Pediatric Dentist and Make Visits Gradual
A pediatric dental office that is familiar with dental anxiety in kids can make a significant difference. If your child is especially anxious, consider scheduling brief introductory visits where they can meet the dentist, see the room and sit in the chair without treatment. Gradual exposure helps build comfort and confidence.positive experience for kids.
How Can Eastside Pediatric Dentistry Help?
At Eastside Pediatric Dentistry, Dr. Winslow and our friendly team are specially trained in caring for anxious children. Our office is designed to be welcoming, child friendly and calming. We explain each step in simple language, move at your child's pace and encourage questions. Comfort items are always welcome, and we offer gentle techniques that allow kids to signal when they need a break.
For highly anxious children, we can schedule introductory visits so they can get to know our team and environment before any treatment begins. Our goal is to create positive dental experiences that support long term oral health.
Schedule Your Child’s Dental Visit Today
Dental anxiety is common in both kids and adults, but it does not need to stand in the way of a healthy smile. By understanding what causes fear of the dentist and using the tips above, you can help your child feel more confident and comfortable. I
If you're looking for a team that understands dental anxiety in kids and works patiently to create a positive experience, schedule an appointment at Eastside Pediatric Dentistry today — or call us at 585-223-5010. We look forward to helping your child build trust, confidence and a lifetime of healthy habits.