Many adults struggle with anxiety when it comes to visiting the dentist. It could stem from past dental experiences, the fear of pain, or the sounds and smells of the dentist’s office in general. Despite these feelings, however, routinely visiting the dentist is essential for your oral health.
How do you do it?
It all comes down to learning how to manage dental anxiety to make these visits more comfortable – and more effective. Follow these tips for a stress-free trip to the dentist.
Be Open and Honest
Communication is so important. If your dental team doesn’t know that you have dental anxiety, how can they make your visit easier and less challenging for you?
When you are open and honest about your concerns and your nervousness, your dental team will be able to adjust their approach to help ease your stress and allow you to get through your dental procedure without all of the heavy, unwanted emotions.
Choose the Right Dentist
Most dentists understand that there are a lot of patients with dental anxiety. Unfortunately, not all of them prioritize patient comfort over treatment. Find a dentist who does. To have a dental team that takes the extra step to meet you with compassion and understanding can make a huge difference in how you care for your oral health.
Schedule Early Morning Appointments
There is no denying that if you have anxiety about going to the dentist, you are going to have a lot of worry leading up to the appointment. Scheduling your visit early in the morning means you won’t waste your day stressing about it.
Try Different Techniques to Relax
Many different tips and tricks can help you relax when you are in flight or fight mode. Things like breathing exercises, meditation, listening to calming sounds, and so forth can help bring the heart rate down and calm the body.
Find what works for you. In the meantime, here’s an idea that can be used at any time: box breathing. You inhale for four seconds, hold for four seconds, exhale for four seconds, and hold for four seconds. Repeat as many times as needed.
Bring a Trusted Friend
Sometimes it can help to have someone you trust with you. This friend or family member will be able to offer you support and reassurance while also being a distraction to you throughout the procedure. Knowing you have someone there can help calm your anxiety and get you through it.
Consider Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry can be a game-changer for those with dental anxiety. Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, and oral sedatives are two very helpful sedation options that can calm your nerves, helping you to relax and get through your dental procedure with ease.
Maintaining your oral health is vital to your overall health. If sedation can help make it happen— give it a try!
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my dental anxiety is severe?
If you have severe dental anxiety, talk to your dental team before your appointment. Steps can be put in place in advance to help you get to and through your treatment in a more manageable way.
How can I prepare for my dental appointment if I have anxiety?
If you have dental anxiety, set your appointment early, avoid caffeine, engage in breathing exercises, or listen to calming music. Finding ways to stay relaxed is the best thing you can do to prepare.
Schedule Your Stress-Free Dental Visit
Dental anxiety may be common but it doesn’t have to keep you from getting the dental care you need. The dental team at Chagrin Falls Dental will go above and beyond to provide you with a comfortable, relaxed, and safe space to undergo your treatment.
Do you have dental anxiety? Let us know how we can best help you during your dental appointment. Contact us today at 440-247-8641.