Key takeaways about passing your fear of the dentist on to your kids:

• Studies show that parents with fear of the dentist are more likely to transfer dental anxiety to their children.
• When parents take steps to manage their own dental anxiety, they better protect their child’s long-term oral and overall health.
• Starting dental visits early and getting kids on a twice-a-year schedule are great ways to help reduce dental anxiety from the start.

Children like to recreate how their parents act. Sometimes it’s on purpose, like when they dress up in mom’s shoes or dad’s hats. Other times it’s unintentional, like learning to fear the dentist.

Studies have found that parents can pass along their fear of the dentist to their kids. We’re here to help break the cycle with tips and resources for you and your kids to be more comfortable when visiting the dentist.

Research shows fear of the dentist is passed from parent to child

Evidence suggests a strong link between a parent’s fear of the dentist and their child’s anxiety and how they view the importance of oral health.

One study out of the research journal Children found that there was a statistically significant positive correlation between parental dental anxiety and children’s anxiety levels. In other words, when parents, especially mothers, feel anxious about dental care, their children are far more likely to experience heightened fear as well.

Another study published in the journal PLOS One found that parents’ attitudes toward oral health play a major role in how their children value dental care. The research showed that parents’ oral health habits, beliefs, and dental experiences, including brushing routines, dental fear, and self-efficacy, strongly influence their children’s oral hygiene, dental visits, and fear of the dentist. Because parents largely initiate and manage daily oral care, involving children in oral health strategies is essential for building positive, lifelong habits.

It’s important to be aware of your fear of the dentist and its potential impact on the oral health of you and your child.

Tips for overcoming fear of the dentist

If you’re making sure your children visit the dentist at least once – or twice – a year, you’re on track. If taking your child to the dentist is more difficult because of your personal dental fear or anxiety, consider your resources.

Is there a relative or friend who can take your child to the dentist for you? There’s no shame in looking for help. If your child gets to the dentist, you’ve done your part.

If you’re determined to face your fear and help your kids face it too, here are five things you can do to make your family’s visits more comfortable:

• Talk to the dental staff about what makes you anxious. The staff is familiar with dental anxiety and can do a variety of things to make your experience positive.
• Take your own comfort with you. Whether it’s your headphones and happy-place playlist or your child’s favorite stuffed companion, everyone can use a friend to ease their stress.
• Stay positive. Be the model you want for your kids because they’re taking their cues from you.
• The sooner (by age one) and more regularly your kids visit the dentist, the more comfortable they’ll be.
• Take care of your teeth at home. Make sure everyone is brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing, and limiting sugary foods and drinks to help prevent tooth decay.

Don’t let fear of the dentist stop your family from having good oral health

Overcoming the fear of the dentist IS possible. We want you and your whole family to have healthy smiles. Regular dental checkups can keep your mouth healthier, which means less work and less time in the chair when you go!