Does the idea of going to the dentist makes you queasy? Guess what, you’re not alone!! Dental anxiety /dental phobia is a real thing. About 30% of people worry before an appointment, and many of them avoid regular check-ups due to extreme fear. This fear can be due to several reasons such as:
- A fear that the dentist will cause you pain
- Fear of shots and the thought that they might not work
- Panic when you hear the sound of the drill
- The nervousness of having someone working in your mouth
- The embarrassment that you haven’t taken care of your teeth
But unlike other phobias that don’t need addressing, routine dental appointments are too vital to your health to skip. Whatever the root cause of your fear, the fact remains that your dental health is critical to your overall health.
What happens when you don’t visit your dentist regularly?
No matter how terrifying going to the dentist might seem, it’s never a smart idea to forget to schedule routine appointments. Inadequate levels of oral hygiene can lead to a variety of nasty problems. Examples of what happens when you avoid the dentist include:
- Bad breath
- Cavities or decay
- Tooth loss
- Gum Disease
- Plaque & tartar
- Infection of teeth
- Stained teeth
Also, the gum diseases are linked to other diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, pneumonia, brain cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. So, are you starting to understand why you must put aside your dental phobia and visit your dentist today? Here are ten dentist anxiety tips that will help you control your anxiety in the dental chair.
1. Look for a dental practice that caters to dental phobics.
Trust me; fear of going to the dentist is such a common concern that many dentists take steps to alleviate anxiety. Inform your dentist about your fears and concerns. Do not hesitate to ask questions about how the office helps solving dental anxiety issues when you make your first appointment.
2. Technology for the Win
If possible, choose a dental clinic that offer things like
- Television / Netflix / Music
- Latest dental equipment to shorten the treatment time
Music or watching your fav show can not only help you relax but can also help you distract by drawing out the sound of dental drills especially when the sound of drill is the main cause of your worry.
3. Don’t go to your first visit alone.
You’ll feel more relaxed if you know that someone you love is waiting for you in the lobby.
4. Arrive on time, but not too soon or too late.
The last thing that you want is to be in a hurry to reach the clinic or wait in a long que before you see your dentist. Take a seat at the reception, relax before you enter the operatory room. You can also bring a magazine/book to read with you so that you’ll be too distracted for your imagination to run wild.
5. Pain-free dentistry is a reality
It is the job of the dentist to make sure that you don’t feel severe pain while they’re working in your mouth. We at Rathi Dental Care, use the latest equipments to make sure the treatment is painless and quick.
6. Ask Questions
Don’t be afraid to ask your dentist to explain what they’re going to do before or during the procedure. A soothing voice and a good explanation is often enough to help you control the anxiety throughout the dental procedure.
7. Take Breaks
Stop whenever you need a break. A sensitive dental team will give you time to relax when necessary.
8. Deep, slow breaths help you calm down in the moment
You can try this in the waiting room or while you’re sitting in the dentist’s chair to feel more relaxed.
9. You can also ask for anti-nausea or anti-anxiety medications
This brings about a lot of difference during the procedures. Talk to your dentist before you have any oral surgery if you’re feeling really anxious about the procedure. They may prescribe you a appropriate medicine to calm your nerves before the procedure. Take the medication an hour before your appointment, or whenever your dentist recommends, so you don’t feel as nervous or nauseous during your procedure.
10. Make your next appointment before you leave the office.
You’re more likely to come for a follow-up appointment if you don’t have to contact the office later to schedule it.
Lastly, today’s dental offices are welcoming places that specializes in keeping your smile bright and healthy, painlessly. Use our dentist anxiety tips as a safety blanket to guide you through your next dental experience. You’ll enjoy a beautiful and healthy smile in return.
About the author
Dr. Shruti is a Periodontist and Implantologist with a decade of experience in providing patients with painfree dental treatments. Her mission is to change people's perception of dentistry from a painful ordeal to an indulgent experience. She loves blogging and conducting educational camps for kids as well as adults. She has several national and international papers to her credit. To know more about her, click here.