How do you help someone overcome their fear of going to the orthodontist?

Orhodontist??: You have a fear of getting your teeth straightened? That is what an orthodontist does. Perhaps another specialty? Either way, you can be given a prescription of valium or such before your appointment, which might help. You might also meet the doctor and take things nice and slow, then you might become more at ease.

Cookies!: The orthodontist office is a fun place to be. It doesn't smell like a dental office, people are there because they wan to be there. We have games and ipads, game consoles and chocolate chip cookies for our patients. Try a couple of warm up appointments to get your child comfortable.

Talk to others: Have them talk to peopl with braces-- they'll realize there is nothing to be afraid of. Also, have a consult with a doctor before starting, this should help alieviate any fears.

Not a dentist: An orthodontist is not like a "real" general dentist. They do not give shots. They do not pull teeth. Most of what they do is really quite painless. Nothing sharp or stabby. People who are afraid of dentists should not be afraid of orthodontists.

Unknown: Mostly what we fear is the unknown. Become informed. Use the internet for information, but take everything with a grain of salt. Talk to Orthodontic patients who will tell you there may be some transient mild discomfort, but frank pain is very unusual. Schedule time to sit and talk with an Orthodontic Specialist, and go in with a written list of questions. Take it one small step at a time.