As parents, we all want our kids to feel safe, comfortable, and confident—especially when it comes to their health. At Joshua Austin, DDS & Associates here in San Antonio, TX, one of the most common concerns we hear from parents is, “My child is nervous about going to the dentist.”

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety in children is incredibly common, and it’s something we take very seriously in our practice. My name is Dr. Joshua Austin, and for many years now, helping kids feel calm and comfortable in the dental chair has been a core part of how we practice dentistry.

The good news is this: dental anxiety is manageable. With the right approach—from both parents and the dental team—most children can not only overcome their fear, but actually grow to enjoy coming to the dentist. In this blog, we’ll share practical, proven tips to help children feel at ease, explain how we approach pediatric dental care, and show you how positive early experiences can shape a lifetime of healthy smiles.

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Why Dental Visits Can Feel Scary for Kids

For adults, a dental visit is routine. We come in twice a year, know what to expect, and understand why everything is happening. For kids, though, the dental office can feel like a completely different world.

There are unfamiliar sights—bright lights, shiny instruments, big chairs. There are unfamiliar sounds—whirring tools, suction, beeping equipment. Sometimes there are unfamiliar smells from dental materials. To a child, especially one visiting for the first time, all of this can be overwhelming.

We try not to take for granted how new and intimidating this environment can feel. Understanding that fear doesn’t come from misbehavior—but from uncertainty—is the first step in helping kids overcome dental anxiety.

Our Philosophy: Respect, Honesty, and Trust

At our practice, we believe strongly in treating kids with the same respect we would want for ourselves. One thing we are absolutely committed to is never creating a traumatic dental memory for a child.

That means:

• We never force a child to do something they don’t want to do.
• We never restrain or “hold down” a child to get through an appointment.
• We never trick kids or surprise them with procedures.

Unfortunately, many adults still carry dental anxiety that began in childhood because of experiences where they felt powerless, misled, or scared. We work hard to make sure that doesn’t happen here.

Our goal is simple: create positive, honest, and predictable dental visits that build trust—not fear.

The Importance of Positive First Experiences

A child’s first few dental visits are incredibly important. Those early appointments often shape how they feel about dentistry for the rest of their lives.

That’s why we offer what we call “happy visits.” These are low-pressure, introductory appointments designed to help kids get comfortable with:

• The dental office
• The dental chair
• Our team
• The idea of having their teeth checked

During these visits, we may simply count teeth, look around, and let your child explore the environment at their own pace. There’s no rush and no pressure. The goal is familiarity and comfort—not treatment.

When kids associate the dentist with calm, positive experiences early on, they’re far less likely to develop anxiety later.

How Parents Can Help Reduce Dental Anxiety

Parents play a huge role in shaping how children feel about dental visits—often without realizing it.

One of the most important tips we can share is this: be mindful of the language you use before the appointment.

We often hear parents say things like:

• “This might hurt a little.”
• “Don’t worry, it’ll be over fast.”
• “They’re going to give you a shot.”

Even when said with good intentions, these phrases can introduce fear where none existed before.

Instead, we recommend keeping explanations simple and positive:

• “We’re going to have your teeth counted.”
• “The dentist is going to make sure your teeth are healthy.”
• “It’s an easy visit, and they’ll take great care of you.”

Children don’t have prior experience to filter out exaggerated fears. What they hear from parents, siblings, or family members often becomes their reality.

Understanding Generational Dental Anxiety

We sometimes see what can best be described as generational dental anxiety. Parents who had difficult dental experiences as children—often decades ago—may unintentionally pass those fears on through comments or stories.

Dentistry today is very different from what many adults remember. Techniques, technology, and philosophies have evolved dramatically, especially when it comes to treating kids.

Being aware of this cycle helps parents break it. By focusing on calm reassurance and letting the dental team guide the experience, you give your child a fresh, fear-free perspective.

Distraction: One of Our Most Powerful Tools

When it comes to kids, distraction is king.

In our treatment rooms, we’ve placed TVs on the ceiling above the dental chairs. When kids lie back, they can watch familiar favorites like Bluey, SpongeBob, or other age-appropriate shows.

This simple distraction does wonders. While kids are focused on a show:

• X-rays feel quicker
• Cleanings feel easier
• Exams feel less intimidating

Many kids don’t even remember the clinical part of the visit. What they remember is watching TV, getting a cool toothbrush, and picking out a small prize at the end.

Those are the memories we want them to take home.

Creating Positive Memories at Every Visit

Positive reinforcement is incredibly important for kids. Instead of focusing on what they’re doing wrong, we focus on what they’re doing right.

When a child sits still, opens wide, or tries their best—even if it’s not perfect—we acknowledge it. Encouragement builds confidence, and confidence reduces fear.

At the end of each visit, kids leave with:

• A new toothbrush
• A small prize
• A sense of accomplishment

These small details add up to big emotional wins.

The Tell–Show–Do Approach

One of the most effective techniques we use is called tell–show–do.

Here’s how it works:

1. Tell the child what we’re going to do, using age-appropriate language.
2. Show them the instrument or process in a non-threatening way.
3. Do the procedure exactly as explained.

There are no surprises, no tricks, and no misdirection. Kids appreciate honesty—even when they’re young. When they understand what’s happening, their anxiety drops dramatically.

This approach builds trust and helps kids feel like active participants rather than passive patients.

Why We Avoid Shame and Criticism

Many adults remember dental visits where they were scolded for not brushing or flossing well enough. That kind of negative reinforcement can stick with kids—and not in a good way.

We take a different approach.

Even if a child’s oral hygiene isn’t great (and let’s be honest—sometimes it isn’t), we start with encouragement. Then we introduce small, manageable improvements.

Instead of overwhelming kids with a long list of changes, we focus on one step at a time:

• Brushing a little longer
• Flossing a few teeth at first
• Building routines slowly

This helps kids develop healthy habits without fear or shame.

Helping Kids with Moderate to Severe Anxiety

Most kids do very well with the techniques we’ve described so far. For children with moderate to severe anxiety, we may recommend nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas.

Nitrous oxide:

• Has been used safely in dentistry for hundreds of years
• Helps kids relax without putting them to sleep
• Wears off quickly after the appointment

We often use it for kids who feel especially anxious about restorative procedures like fillings. It makes the experience easier and more comfortable—for the child, the parent, and the dental team.

A Team Approach to Pediatric Dental Care

Helping kids overcome dental anxiety isn’t something we do alone. It’s a team effort between:

• Parents
• Children
• Our dental team

Every child is different. Some need more time, some need more reassurance, and some just need a good show on TV. We tailor our approach to each child’s needs and comfort level.

Scheduling Your Child’s Visit in San Antonio

If you’re looking for a dental home that prioritizes comfort, honesty, and positive experiences for kids, we’d love to meet your family.

You can schedule a happy visit or regular appointment by:

• Calling us at (210) 408-7999
• Requesting an appointment through our website
• Sending us a message on Instagram

At Joshua Austin, DDS & Associates, our goal is to help children in San Antonio, TX grow up without fear of the dentist—and with smiles they’re proud of.

Helping Kids Build Confidence for Life in San Antonio

Dental anxiety doesn’t have to be a lifelong struggle. With the right environment, respectful communication, and positive reinforcement, most children can learn that the dentist is a safe, supportive place.

We’re honored to play a role in that journey—and we look forward to helping your child build healthy habits, confident smiles, and positive memories that last a lifetime.