Do you suffer from anxiety when visiting the dentist? You’re not alone! Nearly a quarter of patients experience some form of dental anxiety. Fortunately, there are a few effective coping strategies for nervous patients that can help you overcome your fears during your appointment. Here are 5 tips that will help you relax so that you can get the dental treatments you need.
Tell Your Dentist
When you book your appointment, tell your receptionist about your dental anxiety so they can put a note in your file to let the dentist know. That way, when you arrive, they’ll ask a few questions about your specific fears and the situations that may have instigated your dental anxiety. Your answers will help the dentist identify the reasons for your concerns so they can make any adjustments necessary to help you relax and feel more comfortable during your visit.
Noise Cancelling Headphones
If the sounds from the dental chair instigate your fears, wearing noise-canceling headphones can help by blocking out any of the noises that make you feel uneasy during your visit. Playing relaxing music or tuning into an audiobook are also effective ways to help you to unwind.
Engage in Relaxation Techniques
Deep breathing and muscle relaxation techniques are other coping methods that can help to alleviate anxiety symptoms during your treatment. One method that is particularly useful for calming anxiety is the Progressive Muscle Relaxation technique. It requires you to tense up specific muscle groups for 10 seconds, followed by 20 seconds of relaxation. It can help you to calm down, relieve stress, and even pain.
Practice Visualization Techniques
Visualization is an effective way to ease the mind and body by picturing yourself in a relaxing environment such as the beach, at an art museum, or in a park. There are a number of free audio downloads and online meditational videos that you can listen to while at the dentist that will walk you through the visualization techniques to help you relax even further.
Consider Sedation
Local sedatives, laughing gas, and IV sedation can also help you to ease your fears. The sedatives will make you feel drowsy and relaxed throughout your entire procedure with the dentist. And in most cases, you won’t remember the treatment at all, making it an excellent option for those with serious dental phobias.
If your dental fear and anxiety is preventing you from getting your teeth the care they need, call us at Carlingwood Dental. Our team will help you find a coping strategy that will work best for you. Learn more by booking an appointment today.
