Dental fear is prevalent among people of all ages. Severe dental anxiety can impact a person’s lifestyle, career, and relationships. It can also lead to severe oral health issues.
Speak Up About Your Fears
Many patients feel embarrassed when sharing their dental fears with their doctor. They worry that the doctor will react negatively or judge them. The truth is dentists want to help ease patients’ fears and concerns. Don’t let your fear of the dentist stop you from getting the treatment you need to improve your oral health. Talk about it!
If you’re experiencing some anxiety at your dental appointment due to fear or pain, don’t be afraid to tell your doctor about it. Be honest about your apprehension during your consultation so your doctor can suggest any types of sedation that can help you relax during the treatment. You also want to discuss any family history of dental anxiety with your doctor so you can work together to develop a solution that will work best for you. Don’t be afraid to speak up!
Agree on a Signal
Tell your dentist about your fear. Don’t be afraid to speak up! This will allow your dentist to decide whether or not to use a special signal with you. A signal as simple as raising your hand when they pick something up may allow you to control the situation on your own terms without acting impulsively. If they know you are nervous ahead of time, they can prepare accordingly and make sure you are comfortable during the entire appointment. Remember: the dentist wants you to have a good experience at their office. They want you to be comfortable and relaxed. Don’t be afraid to let them know what you need! It is also important that you feel comfortable telling your dentist if you are experiencing pain at any point during the procedure. If you are uncomfortable and unable to let them know, they may miss an important sign that you are in pain. Letting them know when you are uncomfortable is just as important as letting them know when you don’t feel any pain.
Bring Distractions
When you sit in the waiting room before your procedure, bring something to occupy your time, like a book or magazine. You can also bring along your headphones and listen to music to distract yourself from the procedure. If you’re worried about being in the chair for so long, you can also ask your dentist if it’s okay to bring a light blanket from home. Blankets are common comfort items people bring with them to the dentist because they help patients feel comfortable and warm when they’re sitting in the dentist’s chair for a long time.
Consdier Sedation Dentistry
If fear is keeping you from visiting the dentist, it may be time to consider sedation dentistry. This form of dental care uses medication to help patients relax during procedures. This may be especially helpful if you have difficulty sitting still in the dentist’s chair or suffer from dental anxiety. Talk to your doctor about whether sedation might be right for you.
To learn more, get in touch with Down to Earth Dental at 1407 W 29th St, Pueblo, CO 81008, or call (719) 546-0404 to schedule an appointment.
