15 Jun Fighting Dental Anxiety
Tips on Fighting Dental Anxiety
If the idea of visiting your dentist for even routine dental exam and cleaning appointments leads to tension, stress, or anxiety, you’re not alone. An estimated 40 million Americans avoid the dentist because of anxiety and fear. Their reluctance often stems from past unpleasant dental experiences, the sights and sounds of a dental office, or the simple fear of the unknown.
The worst part is that avoiding the dentist increases the odds of needing to visit the dentist, as unaddressed dental problems can become more serious over time, requiring more costly and complex procedures down the road.
Let’s look at a few ways that you can fight dental anxiety so that you can receive the dental care that you need to protect the health and appearance of your teeth and smile.
Dental Anxiety Tips
- Share your concerns: If you’re extremely anxious or tense, let your dental staff know. Don’t be shy. They commonly deal with anxious patients and will do everything that they can to set your mind at ease.
- Focus on breathing: If you are anxious and scan your body at that time, you’re probably going to notice that your breathing is irregular, such as shallow breathing. Anytime you experience anxiety, bring your focus back to your breathing and breathe slowly and regularly to calm yourself.
- Avoid caffeine: Avoid caffeinated beverages before your appointment. Eating high-protein foods can also lead to a calming effect.
- Select a good appointment time: By scheduling your appointment at a time when you are less likely to be under pressure or rushed, you can help lower your stress levels.
Trust and Communication
One of the best ways to avoid dental anxiety is to work on developing a relationship of trust and open communication with your dentist and dental team. As mentioned earlier, dental anxiety is an extremely common experience. By sharing your concerns, your dental team can help assist you in ensuring that your dental visit is as relaxed and comfortable as possible.