FEBRUARY 2020 • LONGISLANDPRESS.COM 49
Dr. David Kieser prepares to take dental X-rays of Deaveyon Moore during a Dunn Dental Clinic pediatric appointment. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Kimberly Spencer)
KEEPING THEM SMILING
BY SHERYL NANCE-NASH
Many look forward to going to the dentist about as much as visiting the auto repair
shop. With either, few are quite sure what they’re in for. The visit can result in pain,
physical or financial, or both.
Some folks are so squeamish about the dentist they don’t go. According to the
Cleveland Clinic, between 9 and 15 percent of Americans say they avoid going to
the dentist because of anxiety or fear. However, going to the dentist is a must, the
sooner the better. The onus is on parents to get their children started on a healthy
oral hygiene journey.
“The best thing a parent can do is not scare the child,” says Dr. Elizabeth Abrams,
a dentist with Manhasset Dental Arts who works with children. “Don't say that the
dentist pulls teeth. They will be afraid; that's not a good beginning."
Here’s a guide to help you get them there.
WHAT’S INSIDE continued on page 50
52 ACTS OF
53 PARENTING
KINDNESS
TIPS
56GUIDE
CAMP
FAMILY & EDUCATION
SETTING TONE KEY WHEN BRINGING KIDS TO DENTIST
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