A visit to the dentist isn’t something you’d call ‘exciting.’ Having someone’s hands and loud tools prodding around in your mouth is uncomfortable for most people. However, it’s a necessary thing to improve your overall oral health.

Some people don’t just do well on a dental chair. And it isn’t just about the literal pain of most procedures that scare them off–many people are afraid of going to the dentist or experience dental anxiety due to other factors such as past trauma or fear of the unknown.

If you want to stay on top of your oral health but fear the dentist, this article shares valuable tips to help you overcome your dental anxiety or phobia.

1. Find The Right Dental Clinic

The right dentist can make a huge difference in making you feel more confident and comfortable about the care you’re receiving. Generally, you want to find a clinic with a relaxing and comfortable atmosphere and friendly and caring staff.

In addition, since dental anxiety is a common concern, most dental clinics have specialty services to help alleviate fear and discomfort. So, look for dental offices with specialty services that help dental cowards.

One common type of specialty service is sleep dentistry. In this setting, your dentist may suggest using sedation, nitrous oxide, or anti-anxiety medications to help you relax or sleep throughout the procedure. Please note that this specialty can make your treatment more expensive, but it may be essential if you suffer from severe anxiety.

2. Master Relaxation Techniques

Relaxation techniques may help you get in the right mindset to minimize your fears and have a more pleasant experience at the dentist. For most people, meditation, stretches, and controlled breathing practices before your appointment can help relax the body and mind. Once you’re in the clinic, consider breathing exercises while waiting for your turn.

3. Ask Someone To Accompany You To Your Appointment

For some people, their fear of the dentist stems from their lack of control or fear of the unknown, especially if the setting and faces are unfamiliar. In this case, you can ask a family member or a friend to accompany you to your dental appointment. You can have someone to talk to and help distract you from the whirring sound inside the procedure area while you wait.

If you become extremely anxious as you sit on the dental chair, ask the dentist if they can come to the procedure area. Having someone you know next to you can help you relax during the procedure.

4. Be Early

As with any appointment, you must arrive early. This isn’t only a courtesy to the clinic but also helps manage your anxiety. Rushing to get to your dental appointment on time can create extra stress. Also, when you arrive just on time or late, you may not have enough time to slow down and relax.

By going to your appointment at least 15-30 minutes earlier, you can give yourself a few minutes in the lobby, talk to the staff and ask them questions, or put your mind at ease. You can also read a magazine while you wait to keep you distracted instead of letting your imagination run wild.

5. Talk To Your Dentist

Effective communication is the foundation of any relationship, including doctor-patient relationships. This is even more important for those suffering from dental anxiety. Most people fear dental clinics simply because they don’t have a full view of the procedure. By talking to your dentist about your procedure, you can understand more about it and help minimize your fears.

Ask your dentist to explain the procedure and tell them about any concerns or fears you may have. Also, to minimize the sudden anxiety during the procedure, ask your dentist to inform you of any steps they’ll do so you know what’s happening.

Takeaway

Oral health is one of the most critical aspects of your overall health. As such, the fear of the dentist shouldn’t hold you back from your routine cleanings and checkups. While most people can brave the process and just grin and bear the annual dental visits, it’s not easy for everyone to just go to the dentist.

Fortunately, several strategies can help you cope with your dental anxiety. Following the above tips won’t guarantee a successful trip in one go. However, with time and effort, you can progress to a point where your fear of the dentist will no longer prevent you from staying on top of your oral care needs.

5 Tips To Overcome Your Fear Of The Dentist