Do you have nightmares or a sleepless night altogether the night before your dentist's appointment? It’s a common problem – dental phobia is one of the most common fears behind fear of heights and snakes. Still, when dental phobia interferes with your dental hygiene, it becomes an issue. Failing to visit the dentist on a regular basis can lead to cavities, gum pain, rotting teeth, and worse. Fortunately, with some patience and determination, you can overcome your fear of the dentist. Here are five ways to overcome fear of the dentist:
Communication
Talking about it. Even though dental phobia is common, you can’t assume that everyone knows your fears. Talk to your dentist and hygienist about your concerns. What in particular are you afraid of? Having someone touch your mouth? The sound of the drill? The fear of pain? Are you embarrassed about the state of your teeth? Relax and tell your dentist about your concerns. For some patients, having the procedure explained to them or being introduced to the different tools and their functions alleviates some fear. For others, the only solution is sedation. There is always a solution. Let your dentist know and they will be able to guide you through the treatment in a comforting way.
Find the Right Dentist
Your dentist should ultimately be someone that you trust and feel comfortable with. It is OK to meet with a few different dentists before signing on as a patient. If you do not feel at ease, you have no obligation to work with this particular dentist. When do you find a dentist who puts you at ease, it makes a world of difference.
Talk about the Procedure
Ask the dentist to explain the entire procedure to you first so that you can prepare yourself for it. When he starts performing the procedure, he can tell you what he is doing and hopefully, the knowledge will give you power. It is your body and you have a right to know what is happening.
Bring a Companion
To make the environment more comfortable, you may choose to bring your significant other, parent, or a close friend along with you. They may help set you at ease, give you confidence, or just distract you with fun conversation. The dentist’s office is an unfamiliar environment, so bringing a loved one can make it feel a little more like home.
Relaxation medication
Your dental visit does not have to be painful. We have many sedation options to help make you feel more at ease and release the grips of phobia. Sedation options include oral sedation with a pill, mild nitrous sedation, or moderate conscious sedation through oral medicine or delivered intravenously. Talk with your doctor to discuss which option is most appropriate for you.
At Carlingwood Dental Centre, we completely understand and will do everything possible to make your visit as comfortable and relaxing as possible so you can get the treatment you need.
