WNY Family Magazine February 2020 | Page 32

As your child grows, if you have concern over a possible cavity, don’t give your child too much information. This can result in undue anxiety. Your dentist should have the experience and expertise to talk to your child about such procedures in a manner that alleviates any anxiety your child might experience. POSITIVE DENTAL VISIT continued... as A Trip to the Dentist Through Pinat- ta’s View. Also, express positive feelings about your own dental experiences. Don’t discuss non-routine procedures such as fillings. Explain to your child the basic procedures your child will under- go. For example, the dentist will count your child’s teeth and look at them with a tiny mirror. Avoid frightening termi- nology. FREE! If your child is anxious, don’t try to soothe your child by lying about a pro- cedure or possible pain. Instead, try to alleviate fears that may be out of propor- tion to the situation. Finally, offer coping strategies to your child. Have your child practice taking long deep breaths. If you know you’ll be attending your child through- out the procedure (speak to your dentist first to confirm this), you can offer your hand to squeeze. Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer and the author of a kid’s STEM book, “Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery?” Learn more at www.kimberlyblaker.com Save the Date! Explore Dozens of Camp at our 2nd Programs FREE! Annual SUMMER CAMP and Fun Fair Saturday, March 21, 2020 11am - 2pm  Character Meet-and-Greets  Camp Demonstrations at the Boulevard Mall  Balloon Artists & Face Painting Sponsored by: 32 WNY Family February 2020