By Dental anxiety remains one of the leading reasons children avoid or delay necessary dental care, contributing to a range of preventable oral health issues. In response to this growing concern, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, led by Dr. John Hansford DMD, has launched an innovative program called the ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop, specifically designed to empower parents in helping their anxious children navigate dental visits with greater ease and confidence.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Pediatric Dental Anxiety
Children’s fear of dental procedures can stem from a variety of sources — from unfamiliar sights and sounds to previous traumatic medical experiences. For children with developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), dental anxiety can be particularly intense, often resulting in avoidance of essential care.
“Dental fear can start early and persist into adulthood if not addressed properly,” explains Dr. John Hansford DMD, a double board-certified pediatric dentist and dental anesthesiologist. “At Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, we recognize that parents are key partners in creating a positive dental experience for their children.”
The Smile Strong Workshop: A Solution Rooted in Education and Support
The ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop was developed to provide parents with practical, research-backed techniques to prepare and support their children before, during, and after dental appointments. The program is unique in that it integrates behavioral strategies, communication techniques, and anxiety-reducing tools into an easy-to-follow format for families.
Key objectives of the workshop include:
- Identifying Early Signs of Dental Anxiety: Helping parents recognize subtle behaviors that may indicate fear or discomfort.
- Teaching Coping Mechanisms: Demonstrating relaxation techniques, such as guided breathing exercises and visualization strategies, that children can practice at home.
- Role-Playing Dental Visits: Allowing parents to rehearse positive dental scenarios with their children to reduce fear of the unknown.
- Creating Predictable Routines: Showing how visual schedules and social stories can help children understand what to expect during their appointment.
Dr. Hansford believes that empowering parents with these tools can significantly improve dental experiences for young patients. “Children pick up on their parents’ attitudes,” he says. “If a parent feels equipped and confident, it can transform a child’s perception of dental care.”
Interactive, Hands-On Learning for Families
The workshop format is highly interactive, offering real-time demonstrations, small group activities, and opportunities for parents to practice techniques under professional guidance. Dr. Hansford and his clinical team provide insights into managing sensory sensitivities, building trust, and choosing the right communication methods for different developmental levels.
Parents also have the opportunity to ask personalized questions, share their own experiences, and learn from one another in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
Why Parental Involvement Makes a Difference
Research in pediatric behavioral health consistently shows that children experience less anxiety and better health outcomes when parents are actively involved in preparation and coping strategies. Dr. Hansford emphasizes that parents are a child’s most trusted support system.
“At Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, we don’t just treat teeth — we treat the whole child and their support network,” says Dr. Hansford. “When families are engaged, we can achieve remarkable improvements in the way children perceive and experience dental care.”
The workshop also highlights the importance of consistency at home. Simple practices like maintaining a dental routine, using positive reinforcement, and preparing children in advance for appointments can have a lasting impact on their comfort levels.
A Community Commitment to Reducing Dental Fear
The ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop reflects Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry’s broader mission of creating inclusive, accessible, and compassionate pediatric dental care. Dr. Hansford and his team understand that dental anxiety is not just a clinical issue; it’s a community one.
By providing education and resources to families, the practice aims to break the cycle of fear and avoidance that can lead to serious oral health complications later in life.
“Our goal is to ensure that no child is left behind because of fear,” Dr. John Hansford DMD shares. “Through workshops like ‘Smile Strong,’ we can build a foundation of trust, education, and confidence that empowers both children and parents for a lifetime of better dental health.”
Looking Ahead: A Growing Initiative
Following the positive response to the inaugural sessions, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry plans to expand the ‘Smile Strong’ program to include:
- Workshops tailored for children with special needs
- Collaborations with local schools and community centers
- On-demand webinars for families unable to attend in person
Dr. Hansford hopes that this initiative will inspire other pediatric practices to view dental anxiety not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to innovate and serve families more effectively.
“Our vision is simple,” he concludes. “Every child deserves a dental home where they feel safe, supported, and strong.”
Dental anxiety remains one of the leading reasons children avoid or delay necessary dental care, contributing to a range of preventable oral health issues. In response to this growing concern, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, led by Dr. John Hansford DMD, has launched an innovative program called the ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop, specifically designed to empower parents in helping their anxious children navigate dental visits with greater ease and confidence.
Understanding the Unique Challenges of Pediatric Dental Anxiety
Children’s fear of dental procedures can stem from a variety of sources — from unfamiliar sights and sounds to previous traumatic medical experiences. For children with developmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), dental anxiety can be particularly intense, often resulting in avoidance of essential care.
“Dental fear can start early and persist into adulthood if not addressed properly,” explains Dr. John Hansford DMD, a double board-certified pediatric dentist and dental anesthesiologist. “At Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, we recognize that parents are key partners in creating a positive dental experience for their children.”
The Smile Strong Workshop: A Solution Rooted in Education and Support
The ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop was developed to provide parents with practical, research-backed techniques to prepare and support their children before, during, and after dental appointments. The program is unique in that it integrates behavioral strategies, communication techniques, and anxiety-reducing tools into an easy-to-follow format for families.
Key objectives of the workshop include:
- Identifying Early Signs of Dental Anxiety: Helping parents recognize subtle behaviors that may indicate fear or discomfort.
- Teaching Coping Mechanisms: Demonstrating relaxation techniques, such as guided breathing exercises and visualization strategies, that children can practice at home.
- Role-Playing Dental Visits: Allowing parents to rehearse positive dental scenarios with their children to reduce fear of the unknown.
- Creating Predictable Routines: Showing how visual schedules and social stories can help children understand what to expect during their appointment.
Dr. Hansford believes that empowering parents with these tools can significantly improve dental experiences for young patients. “Children pick up on their parents’ attitudes,” he says. “If a parent feels equipped and confident, it can transform a child’s perception of dental care.”
Interactive, Hands-On Learning for Families
The workshop format is highly interactive, offering real-time demonstrations, small group activities, and opportunities for parents to practice techniques under professional guidance. Dr. Hansford and his clinical team provide insights into managing sensory sensitivities, building trust, and choosing the right communication methods for different developmental levels.
Parents also have the opportunity to ask personalized questions, share their own experiences, and learn from one another in a supportive, judgment-free environment.
Why Parental Involvement Makes a Difference
Research in pediatric behavioral health consistently shows that children experience less anxiety and better health outcomes when parents are actively involved in preparation and coping strategies. Dr. Hansford emphasizes that parents are a child’s most trusted support system.
“At Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry, we don’t just treat teeth — we treat the whole child and their support network,” says Dr. Hansford. “When families are engaged, we can achieve remarkable improvements in the way children perceive and experience dental care.”
The workshop also highlights the importance of consistency at home. Simple practices like maintaining a dental routine, using positive reinforcement, and preparing children in advance for appointments can have a lasting impact on their comfort levels.
A Community Commitment to Reducing Dental Fear
The ‘Smile Strong’ Workshop reflects Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry’s broader mission of creating inclusive, accessible, and compassionate pediatric dental care. Dr. Hansford and his team understand that dental anxiety is not just a clinical issue; it’s a community one.
By providing education and resources to families, the practice aims to break the cycle of fear and avoidance that can lead to serious oral health complications later in life.
“Our goal is to ensure that no child is left behind because of fear,” Dr. John Hansford DMD shares. “Through workshops like ‘Smile Strong,’ we can build a foundation of trust, education, and confidence that empowers both children and parents for a lifetime of better dental health.”
Looking Ahead: A Growing Initiative
Following the positive response to the inaugural sessions, Athens Area Pediatric Dentistry plans to expand the ‘Smile Strong’ program to include:
- Workshops tailored for children with special needs
- Collaborations with local schools and community centers
- On-demand webinars for families unable to attend in person
Dr. Hansford hopes that this initiative will inspire other pediatric practices to view dental anxiety not as an obstacle but as an opportunity to innovate and serve families more effectively.
“Our vision is simple,” he concludes. “Every child deserves a dental home where they feel safe, supported, and strong.”
Comments