Does the thought of going to the dentist make you want to run and hide? Does the idea of sitting in the dentist’s chair sound worse than fighting off zombies? If you have a fear of the dentist, you definitely aren’t alone.
There are a lot of reasons why people avoid going to the dentist. Maybe they had a bad experience in the past, maybe they’re afraid of needles or the sound of the drill. Others might feel worried about the possibility of pain, or embarrassed about their gag reflex or how wet their mouth is. And some people have generalized anxiety around making appointments or visiting healthcare professionals.
However, avoiding the dentist can have some dire consequences. Ignoring tooth pain or sensitivity and skipping cleanings and exams puts your dental health in serious jeopardy. Don’t let a little problem turn into a scary one—here’s how to conquer your fears and get the dental care you need.
Five Tips for Conquering Your Fear of the Dentist
- Find a dentist you like. Sometimes all it takes to change your mind is finding a dentist you can talk to, one who makes you feel comfortable. If you can tell your dentist about what’s scaring you, they can put your fears to rest. Trust and open communication go a long way when it comes to conquering your fear of the dentist.
- Get a friend to take you to your appointments. If you’re the type who cancels or reschedules your dental appointments out of anxiety, ask a trusted friend for help. Besides holding you accountable, a friend can offer emotional support and make you feel more relaxed before your appointment. Plus, you can spend some quality time together and do something fun afterward.
- Treat yourself. Not to ice cream! But do buy yourself a present or tickets to a show as a reward for a successfully completed visit. Associating your dental checkups with something pleasant, like shopping for new shoes or going to a concert can make all the difference.
- Distract yourself. If it’s a fear of needles or drills that keep you away from the dentist’s office, a mental distraction can help. Bringing noise-canceling headphones with you so you can listen to some calming music or your favorite podcast can provide the mental distraction you need.
- Make yourself physically comfortable. Are you the type of person who brings along their own blanket and pillow when they fly? Things like a weighted blanket and comfortable clothes can help alleviate feelings of anxiety—even in the dentist’s chair! If your body feels calm and relaxed, it’s much more difficult for your mind to feel anxious or apprehensive.
Compassionate Dental Care in Buda, Texas
The friendly, knowledgeable team at Dental Studio can help you conquer your fear of the dentist. We always do our best to put our patients at ease, but if you have anxieties or fears about visiting the dentist, let us know. We’re happy to answer all your questions and support you in any way we can. Don’t let your dental health suffer any longer—schedule an appointment today.