• Talk with your dentist about your fear

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• Talk with your parent or guardian so that they can help too 

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• Ask your dentist about the instruments they are using or any other questions you might have

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• Bring earbuds and your favorite music to your next appointment to block out sounds

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• Ask the dentist if they have anything to put on, like a movie, to distract yourself

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• Ask your parents or guardian to do something fun afterwards as a reward (movie night, shopping trip, or your favorite activity, etc).

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• Bring a stress ball or comforting toy to keep you calm

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• Practice breathing exercises at home to use while in the chair

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• Get used to a routine of going to the dentist so that way you become more familiar with the dental setting 

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• Try to shift your attitude or mindset about oral health

  • make brushing your teeth a fun thing by listening to you favorite song while brushing

  • have a brushing or flossing (not the dance) competition with siblings