Visiting your dentist at least twice a year is the best way to stay on top of your oral health and prevent serious issues. However, despite the benefits, many people face some form of dental anxiety. If a fear of the dental chair is keeping you from regular check-ups, then you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll take you through the tried-and-true techniques for overcoming fear and anxiety at the dentist. Don’t let dental phobia keep you from maintaining a healthy smile – keep reading for more.
How Dental Anxiety Impacts Your Health
Dental anxiety, or a fear of visiting the dentist, can negatively impact your oral health and result in several serious complications. For example, letting minor cavities or gum disease go untreated can cause serious damage, such as severe pain, gum recession, and eventual tooth loss. Avoiding the dentist can also affect your appearance; teeth can get yellowed and stained with a lack of care, which results in a visually unappealing smile and decreases your confidence.
Tips for Overcoming Dental Anxiety
If you experience overwhelming stress and fear at the dentist, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is very common among children and adults alike, especially if it’s been a long time since your last dentist visit or you’ve had a previous traumatic dental experience. Below are five practical tips for helping you manage your fear so that you can take care of your oral health and avoid serious issues down the line.
Bring a Trusted Friend or Family Member
If you’re suffering from dental phobia, consider bringing a friend or family member along with you to your appointment. Being alone with your own thoughts in the dentist’s waiting room could increase your stress and send you down a negative thought spiral. A companion can offer much-needed emotional support and help alleviate your anxiety by helping you talk through your fears.
Practice Meditation
Practicing deep breathing or mindful meditation regularly can calm your nerves and decrease your overall stress levels, including the stress surrounding dental visits. For best results, practice these techniques for at least several minutes a day, especially in the days leading up to your appointment.
Schedule a Morning Appointment
Getting your dentist visit out of the way gives you less time to dwell on your fears. Consider scheduling your dental appointment for the first thing in the morning to prevent you from spending the entire day worrying about it.
Arrive Early
No matter what time of day you schedule your appointment, be sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early. This gives you plenty of time to check in, fill out any outstanding paperwork, and ask questions about your procedure. Feeling rushed only adds stress and anxiety to an already stressful situation.
Communicate Your Concerns with Your Dentist
Before your appointment, let your dentist know your concerns and that you’re feeling anxious about your appointment. You can even ask if they offer any additional relaxation methods; some dental offices provide relaxing extras, such as aromatherapy, calming visuals, and soothing music, to nervous patients. Dentists want you to feel at ease during your visit and are happy to talk through your fears and reassure you.
Take Care of Your Oral Health
The best way to prevent severe dental anxiety is to take care of your teeth and maintain your oral hygiene. This helps keep minor issues from becoming more severe and reduces the need for invasive, stressful procedures. Be sure to brush and floss regularly and see your dentist in Maple Ridge for preventative cleanings and check-ups.
If you suffer from dental anxiety, we can help. Call us today for a consultation and let us know how we can make your experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.