Does the idea of going to the dentist leave your child feeling nervous or scared? Maybe you feel anxious yourself before appointments. You’re definitely not alone. Dental anxiety is far more common than many families realize. About 36 percent of people in the United States report feeling fearful about dental treatment. The good news is that there are ways parents can help children feel calmer and more confident during dental visits. KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT DENTAL ANXIETY: • Avoiding the dentist isn’t always a sign of laziness or procrastination. It’s often related to a fear of the dentist. Spotting the signs is the first step in supporting a loved one. • Talking about past experiences, triggers, or worries allows both you and their dentist to better support your loved one. • Encouraging regular check-ups, practicing calming strategies, and accompanying them to appointments can help build confidence and protect their oral and overall health. • Dental anxiety is common among both children and adults. • There are simple strategies parents can use to help ease fear and make dental visits more comfortable. • Avoiding the dentist can lead to bigger oral health problems later on, so building positive experiences early matters. July/August 2026 Hawaii Parent 95
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