Dealing with Dental Anxiety when visiting the dentist
Scared of going to the dentist but need treatment? –
Dealing with Dental Anxiety when visiting the dentist is fairly common, and for some, the anxiety has progressed to full-blown Dental Phobia.
Here are 8 ways to help you come visit the dentist if you are a nervous patient.
1. You are not alone, don’t be embarrassed of being scared. –
If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while (months or years), you will not be faced with judgement. If we are aware that you are having your first appointment in years, our team will make every effort to make the encounter a happy one.
2. hose a hygienist and dentist for anxious patients –
Look at online reviews, consult with friends who might be going to the same dentist as yourself, ask the staff for the best dentist for nervous patients, and be open when seeking advice. Be open and honest, by admitting you are an anxious patient allows us to find you the best suitable dentist/hygienist.
3. Try and establish a regular dental pattern –
Keep frequent check-ups, and you’ll always know that your dental health is being taken care of, and appointments will become usual rather than stressful
4. Chose a time that suits you best
An appointment at t
he beginning of the day may lessen anxiety; for example, if you are seen at 8 a.m., you will be finished by 8.30 a.m., and there will be no more anxiety to control the rest of the day.
5. The first appointment will always just be a check-up –
Any patient who is anxious and has not seen a dentist in years may turn a routine visit into a nightmare scenario before they even get through the door. This will not be the case. Instead, the first check-up will be just that: a chance to see your teeth and gums and discuss the best treatment alternatives before proceeding.
6. Know what will help you with Anxiety of the dentist –
What small modifications can the dental office do to put you at ease? Would playing soothing music or relaxing smells may be beneficial? Small adjustments can make appointments significantly less stressful for worried people; your dentist should be both accommodating and able to recommend solutions to help put you at rest.
7. Don’t hide –
The more we know, the more equipped we are to make your visit as pleasant as possible. You can also agree on a signal to let the dentist or hygienist know when you are becoming uncomfortable, such as raising your hand during treatment or examination to indicate that you need a pause.
8. Don’t go to the dentist alone –
You’ll feel more relaxed if you know that someone you love is waiting for you in the waiting room, or even bring them into the surgery with you.