Don’t let dental anxiety get in the way of good oral health!

Research has shown that between 8%-20% of Americans have a fear of dentists or dental anxiety and just avoid their dental visits. While dental anxiety may have you avoiding Dr. E’s chair, it’s important to know that there are risks associated with avoiding regular dental treatment that can impact your oral health — and overall health. The good news is there are ways to overcome your fear of dentists… and we’re sharing them below!

Before you go to the dentist:

1) Be honest about your dental anxiety.

Acknowledging your fear of dentists can help you get to the root cause of your unease. Did your parents pass along their dental phobia to you or did you have a bad dental experience firsthand? Do you fear needles? Or lack of control? Take some time to pinpoint your fear in order to tackle it. By being honest with yourself, you can communicate any fears or concerns more openly and effectively with your dentist.

2) Relax.

Be open-minded. Thinking that the worst will happen will contribute to additional stress and tension. Clear your mind before your dental visit (or even in the dentist’s waiting area/lobby) by using calming techniques such as breathing exercises, meditation, and visualization. Also, remember that every dentist has a unique approach to care. It’s likely that that one negative dental experience you had was an isolated circumstance – especially if it happened several years ago before the availability of patient-friendly tools and techniques used by dentists today. Remember, a calm, positive outlook will lead to a better overall experience.

3) Choose your dentist wisely.

Finding the right dentist with the right qualifications and bedside manner is critical for those with dental phobia. Look beyond where your dentist earned their DDS and learn about their treatment philosophy (which can often be found online in their bio or on their website).  Hint: if the dentist’s bio features words like “caring,” “compassionate,” and “gentle,” this usually indicates that the dentist will be sensitive to patients’ comfort and committed to ensuring a positive experience during treatment.

4) Know what’s the latest.

The field of dentistry is constantly evolving and many of the latest advancements greatly improve the patient experience.  Find out if your dentist uses minimally invasive techniques such as the use of oraqix gel as an alternative of needles. Also, research whether your dentist utilizes current patient-friendly technologies and/or tools that put the comfort of patients at the forefront of care. (Insert any specific tools/techniques used by Dr. E here?)

During your visit:

5) Use the buddy system!

Those with extreme dental anxiety find that it’s helpful when they bring someone they love or trust with them to their dental appointment. A funny friend or relative who can lighten the mood is a good option!  Bring them on back into the exam room with you (if your dentist permits). So, grab a buddy and use the “safety in numbers” philosophy to alleviate dental anxiety in the dentist’s office.

6) Get distracted.

Our anxiety can put our senses on high alert. Are you making it a point to listen for drilling or suctioning? Tune out your surroundings by bringing a good book or ear buds so you can read or listen to your favorite tunes as you await your turn in the dental chair. Of course, you can also watch some good reality TV in the waiting area and in the chair.

7) Don’t bite off more than you can chew.  

If you have put off going to the dentist for quite a while, there’s a chance you may require multiple treatments or procedures. Work with your dentist to develop a treatment plan that allows you the time you feel you need in order to feel comfortable with completing treatment.  Perhaps the dentist can divide treatment into several visits to accommodate your comfort level. The approach of tackling a little treatment at a time can be very effective in accomplishing long-term dental wellness.

After your visit:

8) Keep up the good work.

If going to the dentist is not your favorite thing, be sure you’re being proactive at home with your dental hygiene routine. Brush and floss daily, avoid sugary foods and beverages and schedule (and keep!) regular dental checkups.

Smile.  You’ve taken the necessary steps to alleviate your fear of going to the dentist and, as a result, you have boosted not only your dental health but also your overall health.

Now that’s something to smile about!