Most people to some extent have apprehension about visiting a dentist. When having anxiety about a dental visit, you might be experiencing dental phobia and fear. This apprehension usually makes most people to visit the dentist only when necessary. The reason for the fear to visit a dentist might result from fear to lose control in a dental chair. Other people dread a dental visit out of fear of pain and the embarrassment of having someone look inside their mouth to examine their teeth and gums.

Overcoming fear to visit the dentist in Airdrie

Recognize your fears

Overcoming your anxiety to visit a dentist requires understanding your feelings and addressing them. A good idea is to write down your fears to allow talking about them. After listing your fears, it will be easier to recognize them and will come in handy for the dentist to explain them. The dentist will help you deal with the fears better.

Find a dentist you trust

Another way to overcome dental fear is choosing the right dental clinic. Ensure to ask friends and family for recommends. The ideal dentist should offer a range of dental services including cosmetic dentistry, orthodontic treatment, and general dentistry. When booking your appointment the right dentist staff will talk to you in an accommodating manner without sounding dismissive. Comfort when talking to the dental clinic’s customer service offers peace of mind that dispels the fears.
The ideal Airdrie dentist near me will have a welcoming atmosphere and surroundings. A clean atmosphere will make you feel relaxed to address your dental anxiety. Professional dentists are welcoming and make effort to soothe patient fears about the visit. The dentist will keep assuring you to go through your fears without you feeling judged.

Communicating fears and anxiety

Good communication is essential for a good relationship. Before booking an appointment with your dentist, talk about your apprehension, anxiety, and fears. This allows the dentist to determine the kind of patient you are. The dentist will gauge your situation and personalize an action plan best suited for your needs. Additionally, the dentist will devise signals and cues when taking a break from treatment after getting uncomfortable.

Reduce the fears gradually

A dental visit should not be about getting the procedure done but about creating a good experience. This will significantly help to lessen dental anxiety. A professional dentist won’t rush you into the treatment to make you feel comfortable. During the process, the dentist will begin with a milder treatment to make you feel at ease in the dental chair. This will allow the dentist to look inside your mouth with ease. Afterward, the dentist will move to other advanced treatments after you have become comfortable.

Go with a companion

Go with a friend or a family member on your dental appointment to lessen the fear. The companion will offer support and assurance. Perhaps you should go to the dental office with a loved one who can stick around after the procedure. Ensure that the person you go with doesn’t have fears about visiting the dentist. Additionally, book your appointment in the morning so you spend less time thinking about your apprehensions.

Opt for sedation dentistry

You can request for sedation dentistry when having apprehensions about visiting the dentist. This requires using various medications to help patients relax during the dental procedure. These include minimal to deep sedation. This is safe and relaxing while allowing you to feel calm throughout the dental procedure.
The dentist will apply sedation to make you relaxed when anxious about the visit. Some of the forms of sedation dentistry include:

• Local anesthetic
• Nitrous oxide
• Oral or iv sedation

Schedule a pre-visit

Fear of the unknown dental office might cause anxiety to build up. Tour the dental office before your appointment to lessen the creeping fear. A caring dental team will understand your purpose for the visit. These will help you to visit on a day when they are available to guide you through the office and to listen to your fear. Familiarization with the dental office will reduce anxiety when your appointment comes. You will have confidence about the team, location, and overall feel of the dental office.

Distract yourself

Dental procedures are filled with the sound of drills and suction tubs that might enhance anxiety in some patients. Carry noise-canceling headphones or earplugs to eliminate the frightening sounds. You can also focus on the TV in the dental office. All these distractions will keep your mind off the dental procedure for a wonderful experience during your dental visit.

Bottom line

Dental treatment is advanced compared to years back. Today, dentists carry out procedures with minimal pain. Professional dentists recognize that some people have apprehensions about a dental visit. So, they offer a comfortable and welcoming atmosphere for all patients. 

Add This Entry To Your CureZone Favorites!