Fear of going to the dentist is not uncommon. If you have anxiety at the thought of a dental checkup or procedure, you are not alone! While many people are uneasy about a dentist visit, there are ways to cope to help keep your oral health is at its best and avoid any longer term, more serious problems.
Most people who suffer from dental phobia experience either:
- Fear of losing control because they don’t know what’s going to happen and can’t anticipate the process
- Embarrassment because the dentist works closely to their face and in their personal space
- Fear of pain as they expect the checkup or treatment to cause discomfort
If these are issues you face, let’s explore the ways in which you can control these feelings to ensure a more positive experience.
Discuss Your Anxiety of the Dentist … with the Dentist!
If you’re uneasy about losing control when you go for a dental visit, talk to your dentist and hygienist. Share your concerns and ask about the treatment, what you can expect, and what they will do during the appointment.
We’re happy to talk you through the checkup or procedure to help you understand and prepare for what will happen. Establish a signal, like raising your hand, to indicate when you’d like the dentist to stop so you can take a moment to regain control. Just having the authority to catch your breath will help you feel more in control!
Getting Personal About Bad Breath
Unfortunately, many patients who suffer from dentist phobia are overdue for checkups and treatments. As such, you may feel uncomfortable and embarrassed about having the dentist so close to you and your mouth, perhaps because of bad breath or the appearance of your teeth.
Please don’t worry about this! We’re proud you have taken the first step to come in for an appointment and will help you overcome any oral health problems. Talk to your dentist and hygienist about how you are feeling. We are here to help with any issues you and will work hard to ensure you have a positive experience!
Manage Pain and Perception with Help from the Dentist
If you’re hesitant about making your dental appointment because you want to avoid pain, your dentist is available to help! Talk through your feelings and apprehensions and share your uncertainties. You have a right to be heard and the dentist has many options to help control any discomfort. From topical rinses to local anesthetics, sprays, or gels the dentist can help you get through your appointment in comfort. In addition, the best dental offices like ours offer other distractions such as headphones, video or movies, and pillows to keep you comfortable.
If you experience anxiety visiting the dentist, contact us! We offer a modern, safe, and comfortable dental environment, including innovative ways to help you relax during your appointment. We understand you may be feeling anxious and we are here to make sure you are heard and feel empowered with every visit!
