Eight year old suddenly has anxiety about going to the dentist, what can we do? our son has never seemed to have problems or fears about going to the dentist before, but now he really seems to be scared about his next appointment. any reason for this sudd

What : What happened at his last appointment? Has he spoken to a classmate who could have scared him? You don't give the panel much to go on. Have you discussed this with him and have him verbalize what concerns him? You can help him by determining what his fears are addressing his concerns.

Bad experience: Your child may have experienced something that may have scared him during his last dental visit. This next visit, the dentist will have to "show and tell" to let your child see that everything is harmless and painless to regain his trust.

Fears and anxiety: Many childhood fears anxieties and nightmares tend to peak between ages 5 and 8, and become more unusual after that. Education about what to expect can make things more predictable. Sometimes a pediatric health psychologist can be very helpful at reducing dental fears as they have experience with children who may be afraid of a variety of experience. Some dentists have great staff that help.

B & W: Kids at your son's age see everything in black and white, no grays. So what was fine 6 months ago can be upsetting now. Was there a problem @ his last visit? Did a classmate have a problem and tell your son "horror story." did your son heart adults discussing dental rx and has he absorbed their concerns. Tell the dentist ahead of time. Allow the dentist to work w your son.