With all the Halloween spirit and ghouls during October, you might have come across a variety of online scary stories, including tales about dental treatments. If you tend to feel anxious about visiting your dentist, you aren’t the only one. Almost 36% of all Americans feel a similar way. That said, leaving your oral health unchecked can spell disaster if any underlying issues aren’t treated, such as a cavity. To help you feel more comfortable, here are several tips to practice for reducing dental anxiety so you can get the care you deserve for a healthier smile!
The Importance of Fighting Off Dental Anxiety
Are you excited about Halloween? If so, the last thing you’d want is to have an oral problem like decay or gum disease ruining the fun. These kinds of issues can begin early on, especially if you hold off on visiting your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings. By not scheduling routine dental appointments, you can end up risking a variety of complications in your smile that can become more costly to treat later on. That’s why, if dental anxiety is holding you back, you’ll want to implement a few measures to make your visits more enjoyable.
Tips for Making Your Dental Appointment Stress-Free
To alleviate dental anxiety, many patients find it incredibly helpful to practice the following tips:
Remember to Breathe
In stressful situations, we can often forget to breathe normally, which can cause us to feel tense and lightheaded. Try focusing on breathing during your visit, and you should feel much calmer and more comfortable.
Ask About the Step-by-Step Process
One of the most common fears is of the unknown. That’s why you should feel free to ask your dentist about what they’re doing. They’ll be more than happy to give you a rundown of the process so that you know what to expect.
Listen to Music
Does listening to your favorite soundtrack or artist make you feel calmer? Ask your dentist if you can wear headphones to keep you relaxed during your appointment.
Get to Know Your Team
A great way to feel comfortable and confident is to be familiar with the people around you. That’s why you’ll want to become familiar with your dental team and inform them of any anxieties you might have. They’ll be glad to do everything they can to ensure you have a great experience during your visit.
Seeing your dentist for checkups and cleanings doesn’t have to be one of your Halloween frights. Try the above tips, and you should feel more relaxed while maintaining your pearly whites!
About the Author
Dr. Eric Buck always wants to ensure his patients have the safest and most pleasant experience while in the dental chair. Not only does he have decades of experience in dentistry, but he also provides modern amenities for more comfortable appointments and is more than happy to work with you so that you have your needs met. If you wish to learn more or would like to schedule a visit, don’t hesitate to check out our website or call our office at 740-392-6156.