Dental fear is a common problem. Some people experience extreme anxiety when they think about visiting a dentist.
Discuss your fears with your dentist
Your dentist will want to know if you are afraid of a certain procedure so the proper measures can be taken. You can discuss your concerns with your dentist beforehand and let them help you overcome your anxiety. It can be helpful to talk about any fears you might have about dental treatments so you can be better prepared for them and decrease the level of nervousness you feel. You can also talk about different types of sedatives, and how they work so you can better understand your options and how you will be sedated at the dental office.
It’s common to feel anxious before and during an appointment. You could feel nervous for a number of reasons, such as fear of the procedure itself or fear of pain. This is why it’s important to discuss your fears with your dentist. By discussing your fears, you can work together to come up with solutions to assure your comfort and peace of mind.
Agree on a signal
Agree with your dentist on using a hand signal when you feel uncomfortable and need a break. For example, you could raise your hand above your head if you just need a short break to stretch your legs or use the restroom. This will let your dentist know when you’re ready for him or her to return.
Take a friend or family member with you
Having someone to help you stay relaxed can be a useful support. You can talk with them about your fears and concerns if having a conversation with your dentist seems intimidating. It can also act as a distraction when the procedure is being done, and you feel nervous. You are not the only person to feel nervous or anxious about going to the dentist, so don’t be afraid to ask your friends or family to accompany you if you need support. Furthermore, you may need a support system to talk you through some of the fears you are experiencing at the dental office. Sharing your fears with someone you trust can help ease your nerves and make you feel calmer before and during your appointment.
Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures
Patients who are nervous about undergoing dental treatment often bring a book or magazine to read during their appointment. This gives them something else to focus on instead of the procedure they’re undergoing. Patients can also bring a music player to listen to their favorite songs. If they’re getting several treatments done at once, they can play a movie on a portable device while they’re in the treatment room. Other things they can bring include headphones to listen to music and sunglasses to block out the bright lights in the operatory. Most dental offices provide earbuds for patients to use throughout their visit.
Consider sedation dentistry
Sedation dentistry uses sedative medications to help patients achieve a relaxed or calm state of mind while undergoing dental treatments. These sedatives can be administered orally or intravenously. Some of the most commonly used sedatives in dentistry are nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation. Often dentists combine these sedatives to achieve maximum results and comfort for patients. Talk to your dentist about which type of sedation is right for you.
Our dentists at Rand Center for Dentistry in Flanders, NJ, provide the best dentistry solutions and the best dental care for patients. To learn more and schedule an appointment, call (973) 370-8917.
