How Do I Explain?

My 3 yr old son was put to sleep at EMMC and had 4 caps, 4 root canals and 3 fillings. He did fine, Granted he is not as big as your son, and does not have a fear of Dr.'s. We just told him that the Dr. was going to fix his teeth. The Dentist and the nurses were all wonderful and made us feel at ease. They gave Brandon something to help him relax before they took him into the OR. Who is doing it? Dr. Shenkin and his staff at Penobscot Pediatric Dentistry are wonderful! I highly recomend them. In the meantime read to him about Dentist/Dr. visits, be upfront and honest. Good Luck

Oh I know how you feel! My daughter has issues with her teeth as well. Now I'm going to sound really mean with this but my advice to you is look your child straight in the face and say "This needs to get done, it will get done, and that's it" And if they continue tell them...there is no arguing allowed, and repeat the first half.
It sounds awful I know, trust me it took me awhile to say it to my daughter, but there is no bribing, no coresing, nothing, just do it. My best friend gave me the advice of "What would you're mother have allowed". And even though I would kick and scream, i still got it done. Unfortunately it sounds like there is no other choice. Don't give into the tantrum, DON'T give into the whinning...oh lord then you set off a whole nother element to it. Just look at him, straight faced. Then when he passes out from crying so hard and he's sleeping then you can go bury your face in your pillow and cry....I know I did.
And just to let you know...my kids now love going to the dentist....I make sure I remind them that they get to see all the cool stuff like Mr. Thristy....and they get to pick out a prize and get new toothbrushes and what not.
Good Luck with everyone! I'll be thinking of you.

I do not know if they do this for children but I have heard that you can have dental cleanings and dental work while under anethesia. I know you said that he resists it but there must be a way. There are lots of children and adults who are terrified of going to the dentist. I am not sure who does the procedure but I heard it advertised on the radio. Have you tried looking into a pediatric dentist? I mean one who only deals with children? I am sure they have seen it all. I almost suggested not telling him where you are going until you are there but that really wouldn't be nice. However I guess it would give him less time to stress about it. Maybe as he gets older he will relax more. Has he had a bad experience with the dentist? Have you tried having him lay on you in the dental chair? Good luck.

C.,

I have a bunch of thoughts on this. First, is it necessary? I am a bit perplexed as to that type of surgery on a five year old who still maintains 95% baby teeth in his mouth? Secondly, the same situation applies with dental surgery as with ANY surgery...get a second opinion. I believe the dental industry is way overboard with routine cleanings that they deem mandatory on very young children. Children should avoid fruity drinks and sugary candies (such as gummy worms) and opt for 3 brushings each day and a rinse that parents can help children do. A dental checkup for such small children, in my opinion, should only begin routinely once all the big teeth start to come in and only if there are problems or concerns. That is just my opinion. Course every dental hygeniest will end up emailing you telling you I am wrong...but again, the dental society is getting out of hand on these types of situations on five-year olds. Quite honestly, I think your son is the smartest one of all. At the same time, I am STRONGLY against any kind of surgeries on the mouth for any child who has yet to have a minimum 50% of thier adult teeth....except in the case of an identified odontoma. (tumor in gums)

Finally, IF IT is absolutely necessary to his health to have to have this surgery, I would suggest a mild sedative given at home prior to leaving for the hospital. The anesthesiologist would be the best to know for that. Ask to speak, in advance, with the scheduled anesthesiologist. My best to you....and your son. Keep me posted, please.

Hi C.,

Check with the hospital your son will be having his surgery at to see what kind of books, programs they have to prepare children for surgery. Sometimes they can give the child and parent a tour of that part of the hospital to take away the fear of the unknown. Also, your dentist/oral surgeon should be able to give you some materials about being afraid of the dentist. I would also check out your local library for a book and maybe video about going to the hospital, too.
Take care and best wishes,

D.