Do you know someone who fears to go to the dentist? I believe your answer will be yes. Dental anxiety is common to adults especially kids. People with dental anxiety are usually afraid of the sound of the drill on their mouth, while other people are just afraid that the whole procedure will be painful.
Most cases are people with dental anxiety fear something specific like the pain an anesthetic injection will cause but sometimes it’s just all about the fear that occurs because people get anxious when they are not in control of the situation.
While they are leaning back on the chair, they feel their personal space is being violated. In some cases, people with dental anxiety fears being lectured or taught what to do because they know they are not practicing healthy oral habits by not brushing their teeth or flossing it properly.
If you are one of these people or if you know someone who has dental anxiety, here are some few tips and methods to help deal with it.
Find a dentist you can trust
You need to look for a dentist that knows your situation and anxiety. Dentists are used to people with this kind of situation and they know how to help you out. Ask your friends and acquaintances if they know a trusted dentist and maybe they can suggest one for you. Look for a clinic that is highly recommended because of the great experiences they had with their dentist and their staff.
Give your prospect clinic before setting the appointment. Familiarize yourself with the surroundings and the environment so that when you set your appointment you wouldn’t feel so anxious. You can politely ask the clinic staff some questions about their equipment and services.
Ask them so you know how they do things because most of the time, ignorance is one of the reasons that cause your anxieties. You might be thinking too exaggerated that you make it all up in your head.
Listen to some music that will calm you or something you like.
You can try bringing iPod or headphones, while you are sitting in your dentist’s chair. Close your eyes and concentrate on your favorite songs instead of the sounds created by the procedures your dentist is doing. This will help divert your attention and help you cope with your dental anxiety.
Tell your dentist about your dental anxiety so they can help you create a strategy or a plan to help you cope with it
There are patients who feel better once the dentist tells them what is happening in every step of the process. Talk to your dentist about your dental anxiety so you can build a trusted relationship with the dentist. Then he can create a strategy on how to help you cope with your dental anxiety.
Try imagining yourself in another place or situation.
This will also help you distract your thoughts on your dental anxiety. Try visualizing you are at the beach watching the waves trying to relax. Try to feel what it feels to be there, this will help calm you down while the dentist is doing his job.
Find a compassionate dentist.
One of the most important things you should keep in mind is that there are ways to cope with dental anxiety. You do not have to stress out because you or someone you love has dental anxieties. A compassionate dentist can help you cope with dental anxieties so you can achieve that beautiful and healthy smile. All you have to do is have the courage to take the first step and go talk to your dentist. Contact us today and make an appointment.