Dental anxiety is a common factor in why some people have difficulty bringing themselves to visit the dentist. For many, the dentist is associated with negative emotions like fear, pain, and discomfort. These are normal emotions, but when they affect your ability to visit the dentist when you need to, it becomes a serious problem. While you can keep an eye out for signs of a healthy mouth, there’s no substitute for seeing your dentist every few months. For the sake of your mental health, not to mention your oral health, it’s vital you find ways to overcome that anxiety and get the treatment you need.
Just like dealing with general anxiety, there are always things you can do to alleviate the symptoms and regain control of the situation. Remember, you don’t have to be controlled by your anxiety. With a little effort, you can take control of your life and avoid being held back by your fears. Here’s a short list of actions you can use to overcome dental anxiety and stay in control.
1. Communicate with your dentist
One easy thing you can do to make your dental appointments a little easier is communicate your concerns to your dentist. While you can request sedation services of your dentist, it’s a good idea to start with communication first.Many dentists will understand if you’re a little uneasy around the clinic, particularly if you’re a younger patient, and will make an effort to put your mind at ease. Take the chance to ask some questions and educate yourself about what’s happening. A little education about what your dentist is doing can go a long way toward helping you feel better. While you’re at it, you can also agree on a signal with your dentist (like raising your hand) if you need them to stop so you can take a break.
2. Distract yourself during the procedure
Focusing on other matters is a great way to take your mind off the dentist and the accompanying anxiety. Many examples of anxiety come about because people fixate on some fear-inducing occurrence, and then the idea becomes fixed in the mind. Finding something else to do takes your mind off that stress and helps you relax. Some studies also suggest that music can be effective at managing pain. For example, you can bring earphones and listen to music or a podcast while you’re at the appointment. You can also find things to do before meeting your dentist, like watching TV in the reception room to destress a little before you get in the chair.
3. Bring someone with you
There’s safety in numbers, as the saying goes. Another simple strategy you can use to deal with anxiety is bringing someone you trust with you to the dental clinic. Whether it’s family or a friend, having someone go with you goes a long way toward dealing with the stress. It’s much easier to beat stress when there’s someone in your corner, and that’s exactly how this idea is supposed to work. Even if you can’t take your emotional support buddy with you, it can be refreshing to know there’s someone waiting for you just outside in the reception area who’s got your back.
4. Practice mindfulness
There are always some useful meditation techniques you can use to help deal with stress and anxiety. It’s always a good idea to relax yourself early, before your appointment. Some people like to use stretching or meditation, but you can use whatever method you’re most comfortable with. For example, you could try breathing exercises. Before your appointment, find a quiet, comfortable place where you can centre yourself. Breathe in slowly for four counts, then breathe out slowly for four counts. Repeat until you feel calm. These breathing exercises can help slow your heart rate down, and get you into a more relaxed mood. You can also use these exercises to calm yourself if you feel anxious during your appointment. Just remember to breathe through your nose, not your mouth.
5. Arrive early
One way anxiety can build is if you overwhelm yourself. If you have to rush to your appointment, it can get you worked up and add to your stress. Rather than rush, make sure you leave early so you can avoid any hassle. If you plan on arriving early, it lets you plan ahead so you can take your time getting to the clinic instead of rushing. Being an early bird also gives you some extra time with the dental staff. Use the time to talk to the staff and get an idea of what to expect or destress before your time to make the actual appointment run more smoothly.
Dental anxiety can be a challenge to deal with, but it doesn’t have to be an insurmountable one. There are always methods and tricks you can use to overcome any anxiety, and it pays to keep them in mind so you’re prepared in case anxiety strikes. Always remember these tips to overcome your anxiety, for the sake of your health.
Looking for a reliable dental clinic with a wide range of services? Then check out Township Dental Centre. We offer a variety of dental services, along with patient-oriented care. Give us a call now at (604) 533-8475 to schedule your appointment.