Does the thought of visiting the dentist make you break out in a cold sweat?
If so, it may be comforting to know you are not alone! For many people, fear of visiting the dentist actually outweighs the pain of a toothache, and they will avoid making a dental appointment at all costs.
Honestly, refusing to visit the dentist for routine check-ups, or if you suspect a dental problem only makes the situation worse. There is simply no way to “sweep the problem under the rug” and ignore it. Delaying treatment can only lead to potentially more complex and lengthier treatment of the problems.
As technology advances, dental offices now have more advanced techniques and tools at their disposal, which means greater comfort for the patient. Some of the options to manage pain relief at the dentist include:
- Local and topical anesthetics
- Conscious sedation
- Anti-anxiety medications
Even if you feel afraid, there is plenty you can do on your end as well to reduce anxiety of dental visits.
Here are 3 easy ideas to start:
- Choose the right dentist for your specific needs and concerns by speaking with them in advance of your visit.
- Discuss your fears openly with your dentist
- Learn about the options the dentist offers in their office for treating dental pain and anxiety
Here's a list of some great tips to help you overcome your fears:
- Avoid caffeinated beverages before the visit
- Schedule appointment early in the day
- Try to get a good night sleep the night before your visit
- Bring along a friend or family member for reassurance and moral support
- Bring along a portable music player with headphones for a distraction
- Practice relaxation exercises before you go that you can use to self-soothe if needed
- Establish a “stop” signal with your dentist, such as right hand raised up if you need to take a break
- Get regular dental check-ups. Routine dental checkups help reduce anxiety in several ways:
- Build a good rapport with your dentist
- Become familiar with the dentist staff and office
Problems can be detected early to avoid more extensive and potentially painful treatments down the line. Follow these tips and suggestions to help take the stress out of your next visit to the dentist. Have a child that's afraid of the dentist? Check out our helpful tips for helping to alleviate your child's fear of the dentist.
For further information, visit us at www.deltadentalnj.com. For additional tips and information, check out Delta Central, our oral health and wellness site.
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