If you’re one of the many people who suffer from dental anxiety, you know how debilitating it can be. The fear of the dentist is a common phobia that has been reported in up to 50% of adults and 25% of children. So, lets talk about getting over your fear of the dentist.
When we feel afraid or even just uneasy about something, our bodies produce adrenaline and cortisol which cause high levels of stress hormones. In addition to these physical changes, mental reactions may include thoughts such as “I might die,” “It’s going to hurt,” or “What if they find some awful problem?”
Other fears might be letting someone see how bad your teeth have gotten and the embarrassment of not having seen a dentist sooner.
Maybe you had a particularly bad experience at a dentists office.
Perhaps you have probably heard many horror stories about people’s horrible experiences at dentists offices. Here are some tips that can help you take care of your teeth and keep the anxiety levels down.
Don’t give up hope
The good news is that there are ways for you to overcome your fears.
First, realize that dentists are very aware of this problem and they are often working very hard to help their patients overcome this obstacle. Second, know that procedures and dental techniques are always changing to take these sorts of things into account.
For instance, many dentists are utilizing lasers in their dental offices which help to reduce healing times, lessen bleeding and pain, improve precision of dental procedures, and create a more sterile environment.
The best thing you can do is to get the facts. Ask your dentist what they think, and see if there are any other clinics where you could go that have different approaches to dental work. If you’re afraid of needles, ask them about pain medications or sedation options.
Regular visits to a dentist are incredibly important to maintaining your oral health. So is checking for gum disease. Another thing you will need is an oral cancer screening. Oral cancer is usually something that can be treated and overcome when it is treated early on.
Keep in mind that staying on top of your preventive dental care needs, you will reduce the need to visit a dentist for more serious problems.
Communicate with your dentist
Speak with your dentist and his staff. Let them know what your primary concerns are. Rest assured, there is probably nothing you could tell or show them that they haven’t seem at some time in the past.
Bring some music that you can listen to. Classical, soft, and other types of relaxing music can reduce your stress level and help you to feel more relaxed.
Learn how to meditate. Meditation is known to be a way to reduce stress and anxiety.
These days it’s very possible for people with extreme fears to be sedated for some procedures. That means, you are essentially out for the entire process. You are not technically sleeping during that time. It is similar in that you will be unconscious and unaware of what is happening. Meanwhile the dentist and his team take care of your dental procedures.
In the end, your fear is very real to you – but that doesn’t mean it has to stay that way. Your dentist can help lower anxiety levels by taking time for you to discuss any fears before performing services; and they will work with you to try and create the most anxiety free situation as possible.
Did any of these suggestions work for helping you getting over your fear of the dentist?