Dental anxiety is a common problem that children, teens, and adults experience. There are many reasons why a person might fear going to the dentist, and it often leads to individuals forgoing necessary care, which can cause more costly and timely treatment in the future. If you’re tired of living with the worry and anxiety, a local dentist shares 5 helpful ways you can combat this problem and start getting the dental care you need and deserve.
Express Your Concerns
When meeting with a dentist or even scheduling an appointment over the phone, inform a member of your dental team that you are fearful of the dentist’s office or experience serious anxiety. After determining your level of worry, we will be able to determine if you are a qualified candidate for sedation dentistry. IV sedation, nitrous oxide, or even items known as strength rocks can be great ways to help you relax during your visit.
Focus on Your Breathing
No matter if you are having a regular checkup or undergo a more complex method of treatment, it’s important that you focus on breathing throughout your visit. Many patients hold their breath, which is known to decrease oxygen levels and cause more anxiety. Instead, before your appointment, try engaging in meditation or breathing exercises. During your appointment, simply concentrate more on your breathing. This will regulate how you feel and allow you to shift your focus to something other than what your dentist in Pepper Pike is doing in your mouth.
Choose a Less Stressful Appointment Time
It’s no secret that early mornings, late evenings, and even appointments around busy times of the year can induce higher amounts of anxiety. Instead of scheduling during the craziest times of day, opt for an appointment time that works better for you. If your dentist is open on the weekends, this will help you avoid the feeling of being rushed, which can negatively impact you mentally and physically.
Listen to Your Favorite Music
The sights and sounds of a dentist’s office can be enough to keep some patients from moving forward with any type of treatment. While it’s possible to close your eyes during your appointment, you might need some assistance with the sounds. Some dentists may offer amenities like headphones you can use during your appointment; however, if they do not, ask if you can bring your own and listen to music throughout your visit. This can help to reduce your level of anxiety and keep you focused on something else you actually enjoy.
Plan a Fun Activity Afterward
Once you are finished with your dentist’s appointment, plan a fun activity. Use this time as a way to reward yourself for taking the next step and improving your oral health. Knowing you have something exciting planned for the remainder of the day can help ease fears and instead, cause you to be more excited about your post-appointment plans.
Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be full of dread and anxiety. Instead, find ways to decompress and relax before and during your visit, so you can feel more confident about the status of your oral health.
About the Author
Dr. Vladimir Pastouk graduated from the Kiev Medical University School of Dentistry in Ukraine in 1991. Relocating to the United States, he attended The Advanced Standing Program at the College of Dentistry at Nova Southeastern University in Florida. At Dental & Cosmetic Solutions, he and his team are committed to changing the way patients view dentistry by providing sedation dentistry to minimize fears and anxiety among individuals. Whether fearful of the sighs, sounds, and smells or worried you’ll have a bad experience like you have in the past at other dental offices, he can calm your nerves and give you the assurance of knowing your oral health is in good hands. If you are looking for a “dentist near me” who can better assist with dental anxiety, contact us at (216) 292-3600.