Dental anxiety results in patients avoiding the dentist until they’re in pain or notice a problem. Dental anxiety is a common fear: according to a Harvard study, 24% of people around the world suffer from dental anxiety.
To help any of those struggling with dental anxiety we put together a list of tips to help get over dental fear.
6 Tips to Help With Your Dental Anxiety
- If you’re nervous, tell your dentist and voice your fears! If you are afraid of pain or needles, your dentist will be able to figure out the best solution and help you in any way possible. Some dentists have access to nitrous oxide that can help patients relax. Talk to your dentist: this is a great first step to take when you’re suffering from dental anxiety.
- Think of a communication system with your dentist. Not being able to talk and being confined to a chair is a trigger from some anxieties. If this sounds familiar, tell your dentist. You and your dentist can agree that when you raise your hand it’s time for a break.
- Address your negative experiences with your dentist. Some patients’ dental anxieties stem from a negative dental experience. If you suffer from this, try and pinpoint what experience upset you. Once you know, you can talk with your dentist and they can understand what and why you have dental anxiety. This will help them work around any of your triggers.
- Try and distract yourself. By taking your mind off of the exam, it might help you cope. Try wearing headphones: this will help drown out the sound of the drill and you can listen to your favorite music or podcast. You can try a stress ball or a fidget spinner to occupy your hands.
- Overcome any embarrassment you may feel about the state of your dental health. You may have gone years without a dental cleaning or put off treatment. However, despite the state of your mouth – dental professionals have seen it all. Your mouth won’t affect them or phase them, so remember this anxiety is usually a result of overthinking.
- Return to the basic coping methods. Take a few deep breaths while counting them. Count for how long you inhale and exhale for the same amount of time. Try and relax all your muscles one at a time. Start with your head and work your way down to your toes.
Find The Right Dentist
GVR Dental & Orthodontics offers a patient, understanding staff, and a comfortable office. If you suffer from dental anxiety and are looking for a perfect office, contact us today. We are currently accepting new patients!