My kiddo gets pretty anxious at the dentist, so I totally get this. One time I tried the “timeline” idea, but she still got antsy after a while. What’s helped us is bringing a tiny surprise—like a new sticker sheet or snack (if it’s not cleaning right away). I agree, the office toys get old fast... and honestly, sometimes even I’m bored waiting.
That surprise idea is such a winner—little rewards can really help shift the mood. When I see kids getting restless, sometimes what helps is letting them have a “job,” like holding the mirror or picking which flavor toothpaste to use. Even just talking about what’s happening next, step by step, can make things feel less unpredictable for them. And honestly, waiting rooms can get boring for everyone... sometimes I wish we could swap out the toys more often too.
Even just talking about what’s happening next, step by step, can make things feel less unpredictable for them.
Honestly, I wish someone would do that for me! Last time I went in, my heart was racing before I even sat down. The idea of picking a toothpaste flavor sounds way more fun than just sitting there trying not to freak out. And yeah, those waiting room toys... half of them are missing pieces or just weirdly sticky. Maybe adults should get fidget toys too?
Maybe adults should get fidget toys too?
That’s actually not a bad idea. I’d take a stress ball over staring at a fish tank any day. And yeah, having someone just walk you through what’s happening next really does help—wish more places did that for grown-ups, honestly.
having someone just walk you through what’s happening next really does help—wish more places did that for grown-ups, honestly.
Honestly, this is spot on. I get way more anxious when I don’t know what’s coming, and I’m not even a kid. For my last cleaning, the hygienist explained each step and it made a huge difference. If they handed out fidget toys too, I’d probably fidget less with my phone. Maybe it’s not just about distracting kids but also making the whole place feel less tense for everyone. Has anyone’s dentist actually tried this?
