Scared of Dentist but Need Treatment? Let’s Fix That!
If you’re scared of dentist but need treatment you’re in the right place. Check out these coping strategies so you can get the medical attention you need. Click here for more information on this subject!
Few people consider going to the dentist a pleasurable experience, but it’s essential if you want to maintain good oral health.
However, some people’s feelings towards dental visits fill them with fear. In fact, up to 15% of Americans avoid the dentist altogether because of fear and anxiety. Unfortunately, that means their teeth and gums may suffer.
If you’re scared of the dentist but need treatment, there are some things you can do to help you relax. Keep reading for some useful tips.
Ask for Referrals
Knowing what kind of personality a dentist has and what their office is like will help ease your anxiety leading up to your visit.
That being said, try to pick a dentist with a gentle manner and a comfortable office. Getting a personal referral is the best way to do this.
Ask family and friends about their dentist and get firsthand accounts of their personality and the overall experience. If a person you trust feels comfortable with a dentist, this may calm your worries about the procedure.
Many dentists such as Aspire Surgical have in-depth websites that give you a good sense of the environment of their office and process.
Pick a Dentist Close to Home
If possible, it helps to choose a dentist close to your home. This makes the entire process easier on you.
The shorter your commute to your appointment, the better. Nothing is worse for anxiety than having to think about the procedure while sitting in traffic.
Choosing an office close to your home also allows you to easily fit the appointment into your schedule. If you can take care of the procedure during a lunch break or before work, this eliminates unwanted stress.
Use Relaxation Techniques
If you’re absolutely terrified of the dentist, on the day of your visit you should employ relaxation techniques. You should start doing this before you leave for your appointment.
It’s important to maintain steady, deep breathing. Faster, shorter breaths will increase your anxiety, so make it a point to focus.
You should also try meditation during the procedure. Keep your eyes closed, pay attention to your breathing and focus on a single idea unrelated to your visit. Before your appointment, it couldn’t hurt to research meditation and practice on your own.
Occupy Your Mind
The sounds of drilling and scraping aren’t pleasurable at all and may add to your fear.
Plan on bringing earbuds so you can listen to music or a podcast. This will occupy your mind and drown out the sounds of the procedure.
If your dentist offers TV, sunglasses, or headphones, take advantage of it. The point is to take your mind out of the dental chair and distract yourself as much as possible.
Use These Tips if You’re Scared of the Dentist But Need Treatment
Fear of the dentist is understandable, but it shouldn’t result in you avoiding appointments. Do your teeth a favor and use these tips if you’re scared of the dentist but need treatment. It’s likely you’ll get through your appointment just fine and future visits won’t be so bad.
For more articles on living a healthy lifestyle, check out our blog.
