Behavior management with children in the dental setting is an integral part of care. It involves many layers. Pain management, anxiety management, communication, patient cooperation, and managing expectations of parents and the child, as well as avoiding any negative situations are all things that we consider. In addition to modifying anesthetic, understanding airway and sleep disorders, dealing with anxious children, and working with little people with short attention spans and small mouths, it makes for challenges for the typical general dentist to step up to.

At Coastal Pediatric Dentistry, we specialize in behavior management for pediatric patients. All of our doctors have two to three years of additional training to handle the needs of our young patients. Our team of axillaries as well have compassion, knowledge, and patience to make sure that your child has the best possible experience during their dental visits.

Part of behavioral management begins with our environment. When you walk into our office, you will immediately notice it is different from a typical general dental office. Everything is intentionally and carefully designed to make the entire experience here safe and non-threatening. Our goal is to make sure that the environment and the experience are as positive as possible so your children grow up with a good attitude towards dentistry.

A thorough understanding of your child’s fears, knowing about age-appropriate cognitive skills, and emotional stability, and recognizing any physical or mental disabilities, all play a factor in providing positive feedback and realistic expectations for both our dentists and our patients.

When a patient is unable to control impulses and exhibits disruptive behavior, then our office offers a number of options and techniques available to make the appropriate changes to turn the situation around. The role of parents in helping provide a positive experience can not be understated. When the parent is standing there telling their child, “Now don’t be afraid, it won’t hurt that much”, or bribing their child with payment if they cooperate, it undermines the long-term guidance that nurtures a positive dental attitude in the child.

Whether your child is “special needs”, or simply requires additional attention with their visit, our team is prepared and trained for these types of situations. Whether we need to utilize pharmacological intervention or behavioral guidance to safely alleviate your child’s fears in the dental office, we are the specialists.

With four locations in South Carolina, Coastal Pediatric Dentistry is ready and excited to meet your child and make sure they have the best dental experience possible. Call any of our convenient locations to schedule your child’s dental appointment today!