What is dental anxiety? Over the last decade, we have seen an increase in the number of patients struggling with dental anxiety. We realize the dental office can often be a scary place for so many people no matter their age. Many adults have dental trauma or dental anxiety from practices that were performed back in the day. New children attending the dentist are scared of the new surroundings, people, and scary looking tools trying to be shoved into their mouths.
Dental anxiety is the fear or stress that people experience when they have to think about going to the dental offices.
Below are some tips to overcome dental anxiety so you can attend your next appointment with ease!
9 Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety:
1. Choose a Gentle Dentist: Finding a dentist who is experienced in treating patients with dental anxiety can make a big difference in your visit.
2. Bring a Support Person: Bring a family member or a trusted friend that can provide the emotional support that you need. They can also be there to help distract you.
3. Distraction Techniques: During your appointment, listen to music or focus on a spot on the ceiling. If a dental office has a tv to watch, take advantage.
4. Start Small: It may be good to simply go in for your regular cleaning check-ups and then you can work up to your bigger maybe more extensive treatments if needed when you are more comfortable in the environment.
5. Communication is key: Communicate with your dentist your fears and concerns. Let them know that you have previous trauma or current anxiety. Your dentist understanding your needs and letting you know exactly what is going to happen will reduce any stress.
6. Relaxation Techniques: Before going to your appointment, try a few relaxation techniques like meditating, taking deep breaths, relaxing your muscles. Doing these few things can calm your mind and body which will reduce your anxiety.
7. Focus on the benefits: Educate yourself on the effects of not going to the dentist can have on your overall health. This can save you money, time, and discomfort in the future.
8. Reward Yourself: You read this right, reward yourself! You probably did a really hard thing and you deserve a little treat. This gives you something to look forward to after your appointment and will encourage you to make it to your next one.
9. Central Davis Comfort Menu: Central Davis Dental has a comfort menu for every patient. This menu offers a blanket, headphones, virtual headset etc. that will help you be comfortable at all appointments.
Overcoming your dental anxiety is possible if you have the right techniques. Remember, your dentist is there to help you feel comfortable and provide the care you need. Take control of your dental anxiety today and take steps towards a healthier smile!