Fear The Dentist? 3 Ways To Deal With A Dental Phobia
One of the most important things you can do for your oral health is visiting the dentist every 6 months. Unfortunately, the fear of going to a dentist office is a huge obstacle that makes it difficult for some people to make the appointment. Having a dental phobia is not uncommon, and is something you must conquer if you want to maintain your great smile. Here are 3 ways to deal with a dental phobia.
Tell Your Dentist
Having dental phobias is very common and nothing to be embarrassed about. Speak with your dentist about your fears before your visit, and they can work with you to make the appointment more enjoyable. This may include things like teaching you a hand sign for when you need a break, or avoiding things that would normally trigger your fear.
Use Sedation Dentistry
If anxiety is your main problem, sedation dentistry techniques can go a long way in making the entire experience much more comfortable. It can help make you relax, which would otherwise be very hard to do. Sedation dentistry will also remove the discomfort commonly associated with going to the dentist.
Dentist can use multiple sedation dentistry techniques to help you get through your appointment. The three most common include:
- Nitrous oxide
- Pills
- IVs
Each sedation technique has its own pros and cons, including how much time you can expect to be subdued from the sedation. Your dentist will advise you on what method is best based on factors like if you need to drive yourself home after the appointment. Nitrous oxide, commonly referred to as laughing gas, is often used for basic procedures because of how quickly it can affect the body and wear off.
Block Out The Sounds And Sights Of The Dentist
What can trigger fear while sitting in a dentist chair is everything that you see and hear. There may be drills turned on in a nearby room, or you get a glance at the large needle used to administer Novocaine.
Try blocking out these sounds and sights by wearing headphones and sunglasses during your appointment. Listening to some music or a podcast may take your mind off the appointment itself, and it will be over before you know it. Unlike with sedation dentistry, you will be completely conscious and aware of what is happening, and the dentist can check in with you and ask you questions if they need to.
Follow these 3 tips, and you will overcome your phobia of the dentist. Talk to a local dentist, like Terry W Droske DDS, for strategies to help you overcome your fears.
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