Worried about going to your regular dental appointment? Fear of the dentist affects about one-fifth of dental patients. But if you succumb to dental anxiety, you might miss out on crucial oral health care.
Then you might face a greater risk of dental emergencies which could require more intense dental work that will leave you feeling more stressed. However, you can take action to feel more relaxed and receive the dental care you need without stress. Read on to learn about three tips that can help you combat dental anxiety and have a more positive experience at your dentist’s office.
Practice Mindfulness Before Your Appointment
If the idea of dental work makes you feel anxious, practicing mindfulness ahead of your dentist appointment can reduce your nervousness. Take note of your comfort levels before you head to the dentist’s office. Try stress relief to reduce your anxiety, such as deep breathing exercises.
Bringing headphones and music that you enjoy can help you relax in your dentist’s chair as well, as long as it does not interfere with your dental work. You may also benefit from inviting a friend to accompany you to the dentist’s office.
Wearing loose, comfortable clothing can also help you feel at ease at the dentist’s office. Consult with your dentist to learn more mindfulness tips that can reduce dental anxiety before your next appointment.
Communicate with Your Dentist
Modern dentistry prioritizes the comfort of dental patients. Dentists want you to have a positive experience in their care so that you do not avoid necessary services for your oral health.
However, if you do not tell your dentist about the nervousness you might feel about dental work, they will not know to help you accordingly. Communicate any anxiety and other concerns you may have with your dentist.
They can maintain open communication with you through each step of your dental treatment if you prefer. Knowledge about what to expect from your dental appointment can help you remain calm throughout this visit. Give your dentist a call prior to your next appointment to learn more.
Ask Your Dentist About Sedation Dentistry
Some dental patients might want to try medication to manage dental anxiety. In this case, talk to your dentist about dental sedation in the form of an oral tablet. The dentist will prescribe a pill for the patient that they take an hour or so before their appointment.
The medicine will induce a calm sensation so that the patient can minimize stress during their dental work. However, the medication effects will last for longer than the length of the appointment. You can expect to feel disoriented or groggy for several hours. Arrange a lift to and from your dentist’s office for this reason.
Oral dental sedation is completely safe to use, but you should discuss its effects with your dentist to learn how it will work in your unique case. Preparation ahead of your next scheduled appointment is the optimal way to address dental anxiety.