5 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
While heading to the dentist’s office for a checkup can be an exciting and even relaxing idea for some, many people get very nervous at the thought. It’s not just children who get nervous about a pending dentist appointment —dental anxiety is very common amongst adult patients too! If you or someone you know gets the jitters before heading into the dental office, know that you aren’t alone and that there are some easy steps you can take to help ease your anxiety. Take a look at these easy tips for getting over your fears and you may soon find out that you love visiting the dentist.
Know Your Fears
Before you get yourself all worked up about a dental appointment, it’s important to take some time to examine what it is that you’re really afraid of. Whether you’re worried about experiencing pain, not being in control or you simply don’t like the idea of hanging out with your mouth open for long periods of time, getting to the root of your issues can help you begin to work through them properly. Additionally, many of your fears can get out of control the longer you avoid going to the dentist for a checkup. When you give yourself time to build things up in your head they can be a lot scarier than they ever will be in real life.
Find a Dentist You Trust
Sometimes dental anxiety can begin after having a bad experience with a specific dentist. Luckily, you can shop around until you find a dentist that’s the perfect match for you. While many dentists have similar training, each one will work differently with their patients. Find a dentist that makes you feel comfortable by asking for recommendations from friends, family or your primary care provider.
Remember to Communicate
Although dentists are highly trained medical professionals, they are not mind readers! While dentists do understand that many of their patients may enter the office with a bit of anxiety, they won’t know exactly how you feel unless you tell them. Let you dentist know about your fears, when you’re uncomfortable and come up with a treatment plan together so that you feel prepared to come back for future appointments.
Find Your Zen with Music
Sometimes the best way to get your mind off of something that feels a bit scary is to distract yourself with something familiar and cozy. Listening to music during your visit to the dentist can be a great way to relax and keep your mind occupied on other things. If the sound of dental instruments is a cause for your anxiety, listening to music can drown out the noise and help you get in and out of the office with ease. Simply ask your dentist if it’s okay to pop in your earbuds during the procedure.
Know that Your Dentist Cares
Your dentist is there to make sure you have the healthiest smile possible and they never want you to be afraid to come in for a checkup! Your dentist is interested in building a long-lasting relationship with you based around your oral health. While your dentist understands that you may enter their office with anxiety, they also understand that your visit doesn’t have to be scary.
Source: Dentistry Today
