If the idea of going to the dentist makes you uneasy, you’re not alone—about 36% of Americans feel anxious about dental visits. However, avoiding dentist visits can lead to more serious oral health problems.
The good news is that there are effective ways to calm your nerves and make your next dental visit easier. If dental anxiety has been keeping you away, try these simple tips to help you feel more at ease and in control during your next appointment.
1. Communicate with Your Dentist
Have you ever considered talking to your dentist about your fears? They know that many patients feel nervous, and a good dentist will always be ready to help make things easier for you. Share your fears, concerns, and what makes you anxious.
By opening up, your dentist can walk you through the procedure step by step, offer reassurance, and make adjustments to help you feel more comfortable. Open communication helps build trust and ensures you are both on the same page.
2. Bring a Friend or Family Member
Wouldn’t having a friend or family member by your side during your appointment be comforting? Having a familiar face there can make everything feel less intimidating.
Whether holding your hand or chatting to distract you, having someone with you can be comforting. But check with your dentist beforehand to confirm if visitors are allowed in the treatment room.
3. Practice Relaxation Techniques
Have you tried using relaxation techniques to calm your nerves before a dental visit? They’re easy to do and can make a difference in how you feel before and during your appointment.
Simple methods like deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and visualization can help calm your mind and body. For example, try the 4-7-8 breathing technique. Breathe in from your nose for four seconds, hold your breath for seven seconds, and breathe out slowly through your mouth for eight seconds. Repeating this process several times can help alleviate anxiety and create a sense of calm.
4. Consider Distractions
Distractions can be a great way to focus on something other than the dental procedure and drown out anxiety-inducing noises like dental drills and handpieces. Bring headphones to listen to calming music, a favorite podcast, or an audiobook.
Some dental offices also provide entertainment options like TV or virtual reality headsets to help anxious patients feel more relaxed. Focusing on something enjoyable instead of the treatment can make the experience more manageable and help you relax during your visit.
If your anxiety continues to affect your dental visits despite trying these strategies, consider asking your dentist about sedation options, like laughing gas, to help you relax during your appointment.
5. Schedule a Consultation Before the Procedure
Are you feeling extra anxious about an upcoming dental procedure? Why not schedule a consultation first? It’s a great way to get comfortable with the office, meet the friendly staff, and chat about any concerns or questions you have.
Having a clear idea of what to expect can help ease your nerves, making the appointment feel much less intimidating. It’s also a great way to establish comfort and trust with your dental care team and feel more at ease when the day comes.
Take Control of Your Dental Experience
Dental anxiety shouldn’t prevent you from maintaining good oral health. With the right strategies, you can make dental visits much more comfortable.
At Smile On Dental Salon & Sleep Apnea Center, we provide a caring and personalized approach to help ease your anxiety and make your visits stress-free. Take charge of your oral health by scheduling an appointment at our Lakeview or Deerfield offices today, and start your journey to a healthier, brighter smile!