You don’t have to be a kid to be afraid of the dentist- feeling calm at the dentist can take practice and intentionality. The looming idea of sharp tools and bright lights tends to make us very anxious, even as adults. Up to 75% of Americans report a level of fear at the dentist. A lot of regular dental visits though are usually minimally invasive. Even with this fact in mind, the fear of the dentist can cause people to put off their necessary appointments entirely. We’d like to give you some pointers on how to remain calm and anxiety-reducing practices for the next time you are dreading a visit.
Tips to Remain Calm at the Dentist
Find a Dentist You Feel Comfortable With
Everyone’s comfort level is different, and we all are comforted by different things. Whether it be straightforwardness or a calm demeanor, find out what values keep your anxieties at bay. You might like it when a medical professional gives you the rundown of a procedure in a detailed manner. Or maybe less is more and you’d rather not be reminded of it? Ask your friends and family the style of their dental professional.
Next you want to consider screening your next dentist. Make an appointment to visit the office just to talk to the dentist. If that route makes you nervous, you might be in luck! In the time of Covid, video chats are a thing! Go with your gut. It is a leap of faith we take in trusting medical professionals with our health. Make sure they take it as seriously as you do and you feel comfortable talking with them.
Communication is Important
Once you have found a dentist that you can talk to, open up to them about your anxiety. We know this is difficult. It is an important step though to moving forward. If your dentist knows what about the visits to make you anxious, maybe they can help lessen that fear.
Sometimes people are just afraid of the unknown or bad information. You might just need an update on how things are done and that could make you feel more at ease. Dentistry has definitely changed in the past 40 years and has a lot less invasive procedures. Ask questions and don’t hide how the answers make you feel.
Prepping for that “Dreaded” Appointment
In order to get over this fear, you will actually have to make an appointment and show up. Do what you must to make sure this happens. Maybe get a friend or family member involved to take you and be there in support. Set up a reward for after the visit, like treating yourself. You’ll deserve it!
During Your Visit
If you have talked to your dentist about what unnerves you, they should be aware and prepared. If you still have trouble settling down, maybe ask them to turn on some music? This can be a good distraction to help the time go by. Another helpful practice for calming is through controlled breathing.
One of the most powerful notions that will help you through this is knowing that YOU are in control. You control when the dentists starts and stops. If you need more numbness or a break, let them know. They are there for YOU. Nothing should happen without your approval from start to finish. Make sure this point is valued by your medical professionals.
You’re Not Alone
You are not alone in this feeling. You are actually in the majority. It is difficult to face, but not impossible. You must face it for adequate dental care. If you are still an absolute wreck, especially during a certain procedure, make sure you discuss sedation options. You might not even have to be there, well awake that is!
Are you hunting for the right dentist that will help put your nerves at ease? Miami Valley Smiles is a great option! Dr. Phillip Lance has been reviewed as “helpful, informative, and gentle.” We are taking new patients and would love to talk to you! Give us a call or set up an appointment today.
