5 Tips to Overcome Dental Fears
Let’s face it! Dental anxiety is real. Going to the dentist can be scary for some but just know that you’re not alone because there are a lot of people who feel the same way!
Despite this, you deserve to have a healthy, beautiful smile and we want to help you get just that! Getting your teeth regularly checked is important for oral hygiene. Avoiding them now might just lead to more significant problems down the road. And we definitely don’t want that! That is why it’s important to take the first step. Whether you struggle with dental anxiety or phobia, we’re here to help you with some tips to make sure your dental visits are a breeze.
Tip 1 – Understand your fear
Understanding and acknowledging your fear is the first step towards overcoming dental anxiety. Figure out what’s making you scared and talk to your dentist about it. This will help us come up with a plan that works best for you. No matter the treatment, just remember: it’s okay to be scared, and there’s nothing wrong with it. Dental fear can be overcome, so don’t be embarrassed by it!
Tip 2 – Find the right dental clinic and talk to your dentist
In order to communicate your worries and fears, you must feel comfortable with your dentist. This is why finding the right dental clinic with friendly and welcoming dental staff is important. Once you find the right dental clinic and a dentist who understands your situation, don’t hesitate to talk to them about your fears and worries. Your dentist might want to know about any specific triggers in order to avoid anything that will make you anxious and to make a personalised treatment plan.
Tip 3 – Bring someone with you
If you’re worried about having to face your fears alone, you don’t have to. You can always bring someone like a family member or a friend to tag along with you and provide support. This way, you won’t have to do it alone, and they will be able to provide you with the support you need to overcome your dental fears. Just check with the dental clinic beforehand to make sure this is possible.
Tip 4 – Try relaxation techniques & distracting yourself
When you’re nervous, overcoming your fears can be difficult. But there are some things you can do before your appointment to relax and ease your anxiety. You may try relaxation techniques like diaphragmatic breathing, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation, where you focus on tensing and relaxing specific muscles as you breathe.
If you want to distract yourself from the treatment, try listening to music, a podcast, or watching TV. This will help take your mind off the treatment and calm your nerves. Just bring some noise-cancelling headphones or something like a stress ball that will keep you distracted and relaxed!
Tip 5 – Try sleep dentistry
If nothing else works, give sleep dentistry a try! Based on the treatment you need and your comfort levels, your dentist may recommend a sedation option that’s right for you. Some options include:
- oral sedation, where oral anxiety-relieving medications will be prescribed
- inhalation sedation, where you will breathe in ‘happy gas’ which is a mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide
- IV sedation, where sedatives will be administered through a drip
- general anaesthesia, where you will be fully unconscious or asleep
Your dentist will walk you through the different sedation options and which would suit you best. This way, you will know what to expect and can make an informed decision.
Don’t let dental anxiety get in the way of your beautiful smile. Here at Studfield Dental Group, we will do everything possible to help you feel relaxed and comfortable. Our friendly dentists and team are here to help you through your dental anxiety and make you feel at ease!