Introduction
Some children feel anxious before a dental visit, particularly if it is their first appointment or they have had an uncomfortable experience in the past. Preparation, clear communication with the dental practice, and simple reassuring language may help a child develop a positive relationship with oral healthcare. Dental visits are part of prevention, so families should not wait until pain or a problem appears. The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends a dental visit when the first tooth appears, and no later than the child’s first birthday. [1]
Before booking the appointment
Tell the dental practice in advance about information that may help the team prepare, including:
The child’s age, communication level, or any language difficulties.
Chronic conditions, allergies, and current medicines.
Special healthcare or developmental needs, or sensitivity to sounds, smells, or touch.
Any previous difficult medical or dental experience.
The reason for the visit, such as a routine examination, toothache, or mouth injury.
The child’s or parents’ concerns, and whether the child may need extra time to become familiar with the setting.
The practice may suggest a short pre-appointment visit to meet the team and see the environment. For some children, this can reduce uncertainty and anxiety. [2]
How can parents prepare their child?
Describe the visit in simple, positive language, such as: “The dentist will check your teeth and help you keep them strong.”
Explain generally what will happen without giving frightening details or making promises that cannot be guaranteed.
Read an age-appropriate story or watch a calm educational resource about visiting the dentist. AAPD guidance notes that stories, pictures, and videos before the visit may help some children, although the certainty of evidence is limited and no single approach suits every child. [3]
Avoid phrases such as “It will not hurt” or “Do not be afraid,” which may draw attention to pain or fear. Instead, say: “If you feel uncomfortable, tell the dentist and they will help you.”
Do not use a parent’s negative experience or someone else’s story to frighten the child.
Invite questions and answer honestly and briefly. If you do not know the answer, explain that the dentist will discuss it with the child.
When possible, choose a time when the child is not very tired or extremely hungry, and allow enough time to arrive without rushing.
What should parents bring?
It may be useful to bring:
Insurance details or any information requested by the practice.
A list of medicines, allergies, and important health conditions.
Previous dental reports or radiographs, if requested by the practice.
A small toy or familiar comfort item, if permitted by the practice.
Information about oral habits, such as thumb-sucking, pacifier use, or teeth grinding.
Details about symptoms, including when they began, where they occur, and what makes them better or worse.
If the child has pain, swelling, or a mouth injury, tell the practice when calling rather than waiting for a routine appointment.
During the visit
The appointment may begin with introductions and questions about the child’s health, followed by an examination of the mouth, teeth, and gums. What happens next depends on the child’s age, needs, and reason for the visit. Parents can ask the dentist about the proposed plan, available options, and whether treatment should be divided into more than one appointment.
Pediatric dental teams may use communication approaches such as explaining a step, showing an instrument in an age-appropriate way, and then proceeding gradually. Behaviour guidance should be tailored to the child’s needs and the procedure, with options discussed with the parents when appropriate. [2]
Some children benefit from having a parent nearby, while others interact more comfortably with the dental team independently. Families should discuss the practice’s policy and their preferences in advance, while focusing on what genuinely helps the child feel safe.
After the visit
Praise the child for effort and cooperation rather than focusing on whether they “did not cry” or “sat perfectly still.”
Avoid using sugary foods regularly as a reward, particularly after an appointment intended to support oral health.
Ask the dentist about toothbrushing, fluoride toothpaste, and follow-up visits appropriate for the child’s age and oral health.
If the child remains fearful or continues to have difficulty attending dental visits, tell the dental team at the next appointment. The child may benefit from gradual preparation or different arrangements.
Key message
The best preparation is to share important health information, explain the visit honestly in simple language, and avoid frightening statements or absolute promises. A first visit may be brief and focus on meeting the team, having an examination, and becoming familiar with the setting; this can be normal. The dentist will assess each child individually and explain the appropriate steps before treatment.
This is general educational information and does not replace an examination by a dentist. A qualified dental reviewer should review and adapt this draft before publication.