How to Combat Dental Anxiety: 8 Helpful Tips & Tricks
Do you feel anxious or scared when you think about dental visits? You’re not alone. Dental anxiety is one of the most common fears in North America. But there are ways to combat dental anxiety and make your dental visits more comfortable.
In this blog post, we will discuss tips, tricks, and techniques that you may find helpful to gradually overcome dental anxiety.
#1 – Identify what you’re afraid of.
Are you afraid of the pain? The needles? The drill? Identifying what exactly you’re afraid of can help you and your dentist come up with a plan to make your dental visit more comfortable.
There are five common things patients are afraid of at the dentist’s office:
- needles
- the drill
- pain
- embarrassment about bad teeth
- sedation
Identifying and acknowledging your fear is the first step in conquering dental anxiety.
#2 – Let your dentist know.
Your dentist is here to help you and make sure you’re comfortable. Don’t be afraid to let them know that you have dental anxiety. They may be able to offer options to help make your dental visit more relaxing, such as extra numbing gel or nitrous oxide (laughing gas).
Some dentists even have special training in dental anxiety and can offer techniques to help you feel more relaxed.
- If you’re afraid of needles, your dentist may be able to use numbing gel or cream before administering the injection.
- If the drill is what worries you, ask your dentist about air abrasion, which uses a high-pressure stream of air and fine particles to remove decay without the drill.
- If you’re worried about pain, your dentist can use a numbing gel or cream before starting treatment. You may also be given a prescription for an oral sedative to help you relax.
Don’t be afraid to speak up and let your dentist know what will help put you at ease.
#3 – Try breathing exercises before entering the dentist’s office.
One of the best ways to combat dental anxiety is to focus on your breathing. Taking deep, slow breaths can help you stay calm and relaxed.
Start by inhaling through your nose for a count of four. Hold your breath for a count of four. Then exhale through your mouth for a count of four. Repeat this exercise until you feel your body start to relax.
#4 – Take someone with you.
If dental anxiety is really getting the best of you, consider bringing someone with you to your dental appointment. A friend or family member can provide moral support and help you feel more comfortable.
Some dental offices even offer “dental therapy animals” that can provide comfort during your visit.
#5 – Try guided imagery.
Guided imagery is a relaxation technique that can help you feel calmer and more relaxed. It involves focusing your mind on positive images and thoughts.
You can find guided dental anxiety imagery online or in relaxation CDs. Or you can create your own by thinking of a place that makes you feel happy and peaceful. Focus on the details of this place, such as the sights, sounds, and smells.
- picturing yourself in a peaceful place like a beach or garden
- imagining your dental appointment going smoothly
- thinking about the relief you’ll feel after getting dental work done
#6 – Get a distraction.
If you can’t seem to focus on anything else during your dental appointment, ask for a distraction. Many dental offices now offer TVs that you can watch during your visit. Or you can bring along a portable music player to listen to music.
Some dental offices even offer virtual reality goggles that allow you to escape into another world during your dental appointment. Asking for a distraction can help take your mind off of your dental anxiety and make the time go by more quickly.
#7 – Take anxiety-relieving medication before your dental appointment.
If dental anxiety is really getting the best of you, your dentist may prescribe medication to help you relax. This could be a pill that you take before your dental appointment or a sedative that is administered through an IV.
Your dentist can help you decide if medication is right for you and what type would work best.
Medication can help you feel more relaxed during your dental appointment. But it’s important to remember that it may make you drowsy, so you’ll need someone to drive you home afterward.
#8 – Seek professional help.
If dental anxiety is really impacting your life, you may want to seek professional help. A counselor or therapist can help you understand and manage your anxiety. They can also offer coping and relaxation techniques.
Your dentist may also be able to refer you to a dental specialist who can help you manage your dental anxiety.
Dental Anxiety and Choosing the Right Doctor in Ontario
At Quinte Mall Dental, we understand that dental anxiety is a real thing, and we are here to help! Our dental team will take the time to get to know you and your dental anxiety triggers. We want you to feel comfortable coming to see us – whether it’s for a regular cleaning or a more involved procedure.
We offer several options for sedation dentistry, so you can choose the one that’s right for you. We also offer dental treatments in a spa-like environment, complete with heated dental chairs and TVs for distraction.
Dr. Rekha Miranda values each and every patient relationship. She will take the time to get to know you and any anxiety triggers you may have. If you have dental anxiety, don’t let it keep you from getting the dental care you need. Contact us today to learn more about our dental care treatments!
Tags: dental anxiety, Dental Implants Belleville ON, fear of the dentist, orthodontist in belleville
