EASING DENTAL ANXIETY: COPING METHODS THAT CAN HELP

Dental phobia is one of the most common fears people have. It is a fear of the dentist and dental treatment. Dental phobia can be mild or extreme. Mild dental phobia may mean that a person simply avoids going to the dentist. Extreme dental phobia may mean that a person is unable to visit the dentist even when they need treatment. Dental phobia is often caused by a traumatic experience in the past. It can be triggered by a number of things, such as a bad experience, pain, or the sound of a dental drill.

Easing Dental Anxiety: Coping Methods that Can Help

Discuss your dental fears with your dentist

Talk to the dentist about your fears and phobias so he or she can recommend an appropriate treatment for you. Together you can even discuss different sedation options for extra help.

Sharing your concerns with your dentist will help him understand your worries better and determine the best treatment options to reduce anxiety during your treatment. Sometimes simply talking it out can help ease fears and prevent dental fear. For instance, if the sound of the drill is your biggest source of anxiety, then you can ask your dentist if they can use a quieter tool instead.

Agree on a signal for your dentist

Before the procedure begins, agree on a signal that will let your dentist know that you are feeling scared or uncomfortable. This could be raising your hand to signal that you need a break or a pause in the procedure to make you feel more comfortable. Your dentist will be more than happy to oblige if he feels the need to give you a breather from treatment. This is also advisable for people who feel anxious when sitting still for long periods of time.

Take a friend or family member with you for emotional support

Bringing your supportive relative or friend to your appointment will help you relax and get the support you need during dental procedures. Your companion can assist the dentist during the procedure, and you can lean on them when it gets too scary. They can also help you remember relevant information by asking questions and taking notes for you. 

Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures

Bringing along a distraction can ease the anxiety you’re feeling. Aside from bringing a friend or a family member, you can also bring a book to read while you wait for treatment to be completed. Listening to music or an audiobook may also help distract you from the procedure. If you find it hard to sit still, ask your dentist if you can move around during the procedure. This way, you will not feel as nervous, and it will be easier for the technician to complete the treatment.

Consider sedation dentistry

Sedation allows you to be awake during your dental treatment, but you will not be bothered by what is going on around you and will remain comfortable and relaxed throughout your procedure. The level of sedation can be altered throughout treatment as needed. With this safe technique, you will be able to relax through your entire appointment. Call your dentist to discuss sedation today!

Ken Caryl Dentistry offers the best dental services to maintain your healthy smile. For more details, call us at (303) 973-5280 or visit The Courtyards at Deer Creek 7631 Shaffer Pkwy Suite B, Littleton, CO 80127.