WICHITA, Kan., March 24, 2016 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Regular dental check-ups for your children are important, but many children have anxiety about visiting the dentist. The secret is to help them understand what to expect, and to help them understand why it's important to visit their dentist.
In 2015, Delta Dental of Kansas (DDKS) helped fund Heartspring's Growing Healthy Smiles program through DDKS' Community Dental Health Grants. Heartspring's program helps prepare special needs children for dental office visits by setting up a practice dental exam room with equipment and tools found at a dentist office. The program is designed to give children throughout all Heartspring programs, the opportunity to simulate dental procedures including cleanings, x-rays and examinations. The ability to practice in a safe, positive and familiar environment better prepares the children for receiving successful oral health services without the need for sedation.
Overtime, the children will learn it is safe, and will become familiar with the different sensations of a dentist office. "We are excited to have a full dental work station at Heartspring," says Heartspring president and CEO, David Stupay. "This allows us to individualize a shaping program for each child we serve. We want to help our students gain confidence in a controlled and supported environment, and avoid the fear when going to the dentist. This is one more step in increasing their independence and making sure they are getting the care they need."
If your child experiences dental anxiety, here are tips from DDKS to prepare your child for a positive visit to the dentist:
- Find a dentist you trust, with an office you're comfortable in.
- Tell the dentist ahead of time if your child may be anxious.
- Find out the office policy on parents in the treatment room.
- Play act a dental visit beforehand with props like stuffed animals, toothbrushes, floss, flashlights, etc.
- Talk about how important healthy teeth are.
About Delta Dental of Kansas' Community Dental Health Grants
Eligible community-based oral health programs in Kansas are encouraged to apply for grants for programs designed to improve oral health. Community Dental Health Grants will be provided for new initiatives, new components of existing programs, start-up funding or one-time events that meet one or more of the grant criteria. 2016 grant applications are due April 15, 2016. Application and guidelines can be found online at www.DeltaDentalKS.com/CommunityBenefit/DentalHealthGrants.
SOURCE Delta Dental of Kansas
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