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Tiny Teeth, Big Feelings: Navigating Pediatric Dental Anxiety
Educational Objectives
Learning Objectives
After completing this panel discussion, participants will be able to:
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Differentiate between dental fear, dental anxiety (DFA), and odontophobia.
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Examine key developmental, psychological, and environmental factors that contribute to dental anxiety in children.
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Recognize behavioral and physiological indicators of dental anxiety in pediatric patients.
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Implement effective, age-appropriate, non-pharmacological behavior guidance techniques to create positive dental experiences for children.
Abstract
For many children, a trip to the dentist can spark more than just nerves—it can trigger real anxiety that disrupts care and hinders long-term oral health. Dental fear and anxiety (DFA) in pediatric patients is a complex issue influenced by developmental stage, family dynamics, past experiences, and even the dental environment itself.
This course takes a closer look at the roots of dental anxiety in children, distinguishing between general fear, anxiety, and odontophobia. Attendees will gain insight into the signs and symptoms of DFA and explore how social, emotional, and cultural factors contribute to a child’s behavior in the dental chair. With a focus on non-pharmacological techniques, the course provides actionable strategies for building rapport, reducing fear, and promoting cooperation. Whether it’s a child’s first appointment or a return after a difficult experience, dental professionals will learn how to create calm, supportive visits that foster trust and set the stage for lifelong oral health.
Additional Information
Author Bio
An Chih "Angela" Do, RDH, MEd, MAADH, FADHA
An Chih “Angela” Do, RDH, MEd, FADHA has been practicing in pediatric dentistry for over 20 years as a dental assistant and hygienist. She is a speaker who brings impactful information to clinicians. Her background in film and television allows her creativity to expand beyond the operatory. As an immigrant and first-generation college graduate, she knows the impact that education can make. This awareness drives her to empower dental professionals with tools to better care for their patients.
Through her Instagram platform, @ThePediatricRDH, she offers guidance to dental professionals on pediatric care. A dedicated American Dental Hygienists' Association member, she has served at all tripartite levels, including as Speaker of the House for the Texas Dental Hygienists' Association. She is also the founder of the social media community @AsianAmericanRDH and a proud mother of two young boys.
You can contact her at anchihdo@gmail.com.
Disclosures
Commercial Disclosure
This free Dental Learning presentation is made possible through the continued support of Sunstar Gum. An Chih "Angela" Do, RDH, MEd, MAADH, FADHA is a consultant and/or speaker for the following companies and/or organizations: Dental Learning, Sunstar Gum. An Chih "Angela" Do, RDH, MEd, MAADH, FADHA may receive an honorarium as compensation from the CE Supporter of this presentation and/or from Dental Learning for the time involved in preparing and delivering this online presentation.
Dental Learning is an approved ADA CERP Provider, AGD PACE Provider, and California State Dental Board Provider of dental continuing education. Dental Learning strives to deliver balanced, objective and clinically relevant information grounded on scientific research. Lecturers who are invited to deliver Dental Learning CE webinars are advised to substantiate their claims with research-supported data and to disclose all commitments to, or relationships with, any commercial entity within the dental industry. In many cases, lecturers are sponsored by a dental manufacturing company, which provides them with support in the form of honorarium and/or dental products and equipment in order to help with clinical presentations. Prior to each live CE webinar, lecturers are made aware of the importance of delivering their presentations without commercial bias, and where appropriate, to mention a variety of different product choices that may be relevant to the subject matter of the lecture, for the educational benefit of the participant.
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