Do you get butterflies in your stomach at the thought of visiting the dentist? You aren’t alone. Around 36% of people in the United States have dental anxiety, and 12% of people have extreme dental fear that may cause them to put off much-needed treatment for their teeth and gums. Maybe it’s the sounds of the drill, the poking, or a negative experience from their past. Whatever the reason, avoiding the dentist now can lead to a lot of health concerns in the future.
But we have good news. There are ways to ease dental anxiety so you can have a positive experience and get the dental care you need. Here are a few tips to help you conquer your dental fears and regain your healthy, happy smile.
5 Tips to Help Ease Dental Anxiety
If conquering your dental anxiety seems impossible, see if these five tips can help.
1. Be Open and Honest
If you have anxiety, let your dentist know. You can even let the front desk team know about your anxiety when you call to set up an appointment. That way, the team can take extra care to put your mind at ease from the minute you arrive. They can tailor the appointment experience to make you more comfortable, such as taking extra time to explain what’s happening or giving you breaks when needed.
2. Create a Pre-Appointment Routine
Sometimes, the best way to stay calm during your appointment is to get calm before it. Think of activities that help decrease your stress levels and make you feel relaxed. Perhaps it’s reading a book and sipping a cup of herbal tea. Or maybe it’s going for a long run or attending a yoga class. Whatever helps you de-stress, do it.
3. Embrace Distraction
Bring something that will help you distract yourself from the appointment. Many patients find that listening to music, a podcast, or an audiobook helps them forget about what’s happening. You can even bring a fidget toy to give your hands something to do.
4. Practice Positive Reinforcement
Reward yourself for getting through your appointment! Celebrate by treating yourself to something you enjoy, like meeting with a friend or visiting a favorite place. Knowing this happy event will occur after your appointment gives you something to look forward to while sitting in the dentist’s chair.
5. Try Relaxation Techniques
Techniques like progressive muscle relaxation or mindfulness can be powerful tools for managing anxiety. Online resources or a counselor can help you get started with these techniques and prepare you for your next appointment.
Bonus Tip: Find a Dentist Who Understands
Seek out a dentist who prioritizes the comfort of their patients and understands what it’s like to deal with dental anxiety. You can read online reviews, ask friends and family for recommendations, or even ask to consult with a dentist to learn about their patient care practices before you get any treatment. Finding a dentist you feel you can trust and who goes the extra mile to make you feel at ease can take much of the anxiety out of the experience.
Let Our Dental Practice in Rochester Put Your Dental Anxiety at Ease
Conquering your dental anxiety takes time and patience. Be kind to yourself throughout the process, and celebrate every victory (even the small ones). After a few positive experiences with a dentist, many patients find going to the dentist no longer causes those butterflies to appear.
Taking care of your oral health shouldn’t be a nerve-wracking experience. Full Heart Dentistry is a Rochester dental practice committed to making your dental visit as positive and comfortable as possible. Our friendly team will listen to your concerns, answer your questions, and work with you to make your visit a positive experience.
Let us help you conquer your dental fears. Even if it’s been years since you’ve seen a dentist, we offer a supportive, judgment-free space where you can get excellent dental care. Contact us today to make an appointment. Be sure to let us know if you experience dental anxiety so we can support you throughout your visit.