Going to the dentist can be unpleasant yet acceptable for a lot of people. Others have severe fear at just the thought of visiting the dentist, which drives them to put off or altogether avoid getting dental treatment. Sadly, this procedure has been shown to worsen anxiety, cause medical problems, worsen oral pain, and require more involved and expensive dental operations.
Dental anxiety is an ongoing issue, but it may be harmful to your dental health if you are too anxious to visit the dentist. Here are some suggestions to help minimize dental anxiety. Contact a dentist in Aliso Viejo, CA, to learn more about how to cope with dental anxiety.
Ways To Combat Dental Anxiety
- Discuss your worries.
It is okay to bring up your anxieties or concerns with your dentist. Your oral health could get worse the longer you put off seeking treatment. You can start working with your dentist to deal with your anxiety as soon as you have spoken out and revealed it to them. To let the dentist know you need a break, you should agree to give them a signal. It might also include taking a close friend along for treatment appointments. Never be shy about speaking up! Your dentist wants you to have a great time in their office.
- Agree on a signal
Establish nonverbal signals with your dentist in advance to let them know when you want or need a break. It is essential to let your dentist know before time if you have concerns about how comfortable you will be throughout your treatment session. They want you to feel relaxed! Asking for a break does not mean that you are refusing treatment; rather, it indicates your need for a little break so that you may replenish and carry out your procedure with more trust and ease.
- Take along someone you can trust.
Your dentist wants the procedure to be as pleasant as possible for you or a member of your family. Children who struggle with dental anxiety might need a comforting person to stay with them throughout their appointments. Having a companion with you might help alleviate the stress that some patients feel while visiting the dentist because they are ashamed of the condition of their teeth.
- Bring distractions
If you have nervousness or anxiety at the idea of seeing the dentist, carry anything that will distract your focus. For many patients, this may be a source of comfort and relaxation. It can also be helpful to have a loved one along since they can help distract your attention if you are uncomfortable. Some patients can even use headphones to listen to music.