Overcoming your children’s fear of the dentist     Many people remember from their own childhood that a visit to the dentist may not have been a pleasant experience. The fact is, however, advances like fluoride toothpaste and the concept of preventive dentistry mean that today, going to the dentist can be a painless and trauma-free event.     There are a number of steps you can take to stop your children feeling nervous about going to the dentist. Because children can sense fear in their parents, it is important not to convey your own concerns if you have them.     The earlier you can get your children used to visiting the dentist, the better. In the early years, your dentist will probably just check their teeth, getting them used to the surroundings and increasing their confidence.     Regular visits will not only help this, but they will also help the dentist to advise about maintaining healthy teeth and gums. And if specific treatment is required at some stage in the future, your children will cope much better if they already have a good relationship with your dentist.