Some children experience dental phobia or anxiety that can make even routine checkups stressful. Dentists know how common it is for younger patients to be nervous, so they take a number of steps to help them calm down. Sedation dentistry in Lake Zurich is probably the best-known method of reducing dental anxiety, but there are more subtle methods that might be employed as well. Specifically, displaying art and encouraging play can go a long way towards reducing anxiety.
How Does Art Help Reduce Stress?
Studies have found that viewing art can potentially reduce stress. In one such study, researchers at the University of Westminster monitored the stress levels of patients who visited an art gallery around lunchtime. It was found that those who went to the gallery tended to show lower stress levels. Note that the participants in the study were initially suffering from high levels of stress.
Carefully chosen art can create a soothing environment for young dental patients, much in the same way that visiting an art gallery calmed the study participants. The type of art makes a difference; modern art with harsh lines and bright colors tends to be ineffective in calming the mind. Instead, most dental practices opt for landscapes with natural colors. (Appropriate, since spending time in nature has been known to help reduce stress as well.)
Well-chosen art can go a long way towards making a practice more enjoyable overall for children, allowing them to have more fun during their appointment. This contributes to positive early dental experiences that shape their long-term attitude towards dental care. In short, art can help patients of all ages maintain a more positive mindset during their appointments.
How Can Play Reduce Stress?
Studies have shown that play therapy goes a long way towards helping reduce generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and similar conditions. In other words, it’s easier for children to stay calm when they’re given a chance to play. Furthermore, play for children gives them a chance to express their feelings, perceptions, and thoughts. This can give parents and the children’s dentist a better sense of what children are experiencing at the dental office and adjusting treatment accordingly. As such, many practices make sure to provide opportunities for children to have fun, such as the Grand Dental – Lake Zurich treehouse where kids can play before their appointment.
The above are just a few examples of how art and play can create a comforting dental environment for even the most anxious of children. A good dentist should go out of their way to help their youngest patients feel at ease from the very moment they arrive, and that means putting serious thought into the design and accommodations of their practice.
About the Practice
The dentists at Grand Dental – Lake Zurich pride themselves in being able to provide a relaxing experience for patients of all ages, and that ideal has influenced the way we designed our practice. We have created a fun environment for children that even includes a treehouse. Adults can also enjoy the relaxing, natural feel of our practice thanks to our carefully chosen art and décor. To schedule an appointment and see our office in person, visit our website or call (847) 438-8136.