Going to the dentist can be scary for anyone at any age. Dentophobia is the extreme fear of going to the dentist. While not everyone’s fear maybe this extreme, thanks to the movies and television shows we watch and the horror stories we hear from others, we all think of going to the dentist as a terrifying experience.
Whether it be the pain that people think will ensue or the pain they have felt in the past and think they will feel again, the thought of going to the dentist is scary. Not to mention all the intense tools, the sounds and smells, and what makes it even worse, is if you already know your oral hygiene routine hasn’t been up to snuff. You may be afraid because you are already worried about hearing bad news. Or maybe, you are afraid of how much the bill is going to be.
Here are five tips to overcome your fear of the dentist:
Keep good oral hygiene:
There’s nothing to fear about going to the dentist if you have nothing to worry about. Meaning, keeping good oral hygiene will ease your fears about the dentist telling you there is a problem or even experiencing pain during a simple cleaning.
Distract yourself:
It’s always a good idea to distract yourself. That could be by reading or listening to music or talking to a friend or family member. Speaking of which, it is always helpful to bring someone with you to not only ease your fears, but it would also be good to have someone to bring you to and from the appointment.
Try different relaxation techniques:
There are many different types of relaxation techniques you can do to make yourself feel better. This can include listening to music, taking deep breathes to slow your heart rate, or even practicing mindfulness. Also, think long term goals and health, rather than short term fears.
Be honest about your fears:
Let the dentist know what you are concerned about. If you are worried about the pain, perhaps they can offer a form of sedation. If you have had bad experiences in the past, then let them know and they can walk you through the particular procedure and how it will be different. You should also not be embarrassed about your oral health, dentists have seen it all and won’t judge. If your fear is about cost, then let them know and they can discuss payment options.
Find a dentist you trust:
When you find a dentist you can trust, you won’t be afraid of letting them know your concerns or fears. You will also trust them to do the best job possible to not only care for your teeth but also make you feel comfortable.
By practicing these tips, hopefully, you discover that the dentist isn’t so scary after all! The right dentist will do whatever they can to make you feel comfortable and make you more aware of how to care for your oral health.
