Roanoke Times
Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: SUNDAY, July 22, 1990 TAG: 9007200393
SECTION: EXTRA PAGE: 4 EDITION: METRO
SOURCE: Cox News Service
DATELINE: WACO, TEXAS LENGTH: Short
"Often the granddaddy tells a story to the grandchild about how the dentist hurt," said Waco dentist David Rhoden.
Older people may remember the dentists of their youth, who did not have today's painkilling drugs. These people fear modern dentistry hasn't changed.
"It's really a whole new world," said Waco dentist Mike Thrasher. "We have so many ways today of treating dental problems comfortably, it's really very sad to see anyone lose their teeth."
If families want their children to have a lifetime of good teeth, there are steps parents can take.
Horror stories should be avoided. Older relatives should be asked not to say anything scary about dentists to young children.
Youngsters should be encouraged to practice good dental hygiene.
The youngster's first visit to the dentist should be a pleasant one. Dr. Rhoden recommends that a child's first dental examination be performed soon after age 3.
"Once you start them out right, they won't have any fear," he said. "The first impression is the most important and parents have so much control over that."
He said the main cause for a child's fearing the dentist can be traced to parents or other adults. They are usually well-meaning, but handle the situation wrong.
by CNB