Tips To Ease Dental Fear

Many patients avoid the dentist due to dental fear or anxiety. Dental fear or anxiety is very real, and it can make patients avoid dental appointments. Dental anxiety or fear can prevent patients from getting the dental care they need.

Discuss your fears with the dentist

Dentists understand that all patients have different levels of pain tolerance and different fears of dental procedures. That's why it's important to communicate your concerns with your doctor. By discussing your fear or anxiety openly with your dentist, you can work together to determine the best options for you. Sedation dentistry can be an option for patients with severe dental anxiety that interferes with regular dental care. Talk to your dentist today to discuss your fears and learn more about how sedation dentistry can help you.

Agree on a signal

When you've scheduled an appointment with a dentist or hygienist, and the visit is coming up soon, it may be helpful to consider how you'll communicate if there's something you need to discuss with the healthcare provider. Knowing you'll feel more relaxed knowing there's a plan in place before you're in the dental office can help ease the nerves you may already be feeling about the appointment. For example, you can choose to communicate non-verbally through the use of hand signals.

One way you may want to communicate if you're anxious during a procedure is through a simple hand gesture. You may also use hand gestures to wave away something you don't wish to do; this could include things like using a laser to clean your teeth or a swab of fluoride. If your dentist uses any tools in your mouth that make you feel uncomfortable in any way, you can use a signal to stop.

Take a friend or family member with you for emotional support

Even if you feel anxious or afraid, it's perfectly normal to have butterflies in your stomach before a procedure. But, if you become too overwhelmed, ask a loved one to step in and hold your hand for support. They may be able to distract you from the procedure and make you feel calmer.

Having support can help you cope better with feelings of fear and discomfort. Plus, they'll be able to give you a ride home if your dentist prescribes medication to help you relax.

Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures

When you are in the dentist's clinic, you are bound to experience some discomfort and pain during the treatment. To ensure that the procedure goes smoothly, bring a distraction with you, such as a book, magazine or music player, etc., to distract yourself from the pain or discomfort of the procedure. You can also consider undergoing dental sedation to get through the treatments quickly without any pain.

Consider sedation dentistry

A number of people avoid seeking dental treatments due to fear or anxiety, but sedation dentistry can help you relax and receive treatments without any worries. With sedation dentistry, you can often go through several dental procedures in one appointment with minimal discomfort. Sedation dentistry can help relax you so you can get the care you need. Talk with your dental care provider about which type of sedation is right for you.

If you’re looking for an experienced dentist in Redmond who can help you maintain your oral health, we welcome you to call our team at Wellness Centered Dentistry to schedule a consultation today!