PEDIATRIC DENTAL ANXIETY: STRATEGIES FOR DENTISTS TO ALLEVIATE CHILDREN'S OVERWHELMING FEAR

RESUMO

Ashwag Siddik Noorsaeed*, Salem Saad Salem Alqahtani, Abdulaziz Ahmed Alghanami, Mohammed Dhafer Alqahtani, Hassan Ibrahim Rashid Al Hudithi, Muath Safar Almansour Alshahrani, Alanoud Khaled M Alkharsan

Paediatric dental anxiety is a common challenge that many children face when visiting the dentist, often resulting in heightened levels of stress and fear. This anxiety can stem from various sources, including previous negative experiences, fear of the unknown, or even parental attitudes toward dental care. Dentists play a critical role in addressing these fears by creating a welcoming and supportive environment that promotes comfort and trust. Strategies such as using simple, child-friendly language, demonstrating equipment, and involving parents can significantly reduce anxiety levels. Understanding the child's perspective and actively engaging them in the process can also foster a sense of control and security, making dental visits less intimidating. In addition to building rapport with young patients, dentists can utilize various behavioural management techniques to further alleviate paediatric dental anxiety. Distraction techniques, such as providing engaging toys, visual aids, or virtual reality experiences, can help shift the child's focus away from the dental procedures. Positive reinforcement, including praise and rewards for bravery, can encourage children to approach their visits with a more optimistic mind-set. Furthermore, dentists should be trained to recognize signs of anxiety and adapt their approach accordingly, whether that's increasing the time spent on explanations, offering breaks, or using relaxation techniques. By implementing these strategies, dental professionals can create a more pleasant experience for children, ultimately leading to better oral health outcomes and promoting a lifetime of positive dental habits.