Nature versus nurture describes the biological and environmental factors behind a child’s behavioural development. In the dental chair, the nurture side is where we can actually work.
What the Early Years Foundation Stage tells us
Early Years Foundation Stage principles show that the right guidance scaffolds psychological development. That holds true despite inherent fears or self-doubt.
Those fears often come from past unpleasant experiences. However, an earlier bad appointment does not have to define the next one. In the nature versus nurture balance, this is squarely the nurture side.
The trick is rerouting the signal
Much of the work lies in rephrasing. For example, changing the words used to describe an instruction reroutes the signal reaching the brain.
Take a practical example. If a child has had an unfortunate experience during a cavity filling, avoid the word “filling” at later appointments.
Words that children accept
- Washing the tooth
- Painting the tooth
- Placing a bandage on the tooth
These alternatives land far more easily. Because the frightening label disappears, the child meets the procedure fresh. In other words, the treatment is identical, yet the experience is not.
Rephrasing rewires
Rephrasing leads to rewiring. New wording builds a new positive association in the brain’s neurons.
As a result, the response at future appointments changes. Children accept instructions more readily, and therefore cope far better.
Where nature ends and nurture begins
Genetics influence enamel quality, jaw shape and saliva. In the nature versus nurture debate, those sit firmly on the nature side, and we cannot change them.
Everything else remains open. For instance, diet, brushing habits, language and the emotional tone of an appointment all belong to nurture. Consequently they are where parents and dentists hold real influence.
This collaboration between EYFS and pediatric dentistry creates a pleasant dental experience. In turn it instils a positive dental attitude for life. See also dental office vocabulary and behaviour modification.
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry likewise emphasises early habit-forming years.
Book a positive first visit in Dubai
Nurture starts with one calm appointment. We will make the first one count. Call +971 50 682 3462 or book an appointment with Dr. Imneet Madan in Dubai.
