When you think about going to the dentist, do you become nervous? Do you put off going to the doctor for your regular checkups because of your anxiety? The fear of pain, the fear of drills, or the prospect of being embarrassed due to poor oral care can all contribute to the anxiety that people have while going to the dentist. The anxiousness that you feel, on the other hand, is quite normal! According to studies, 36 percent of the general population has some form of anxiety or panic in response to visits to the dentist.
There are, to your relief, a variety of strategies you can employ to deal with and alleviate the anxiety caused by visits to the dentist. In this article, we will discuss seven of these methods so that you can protect your dental health now and in the future.
Visits to the dentist can bring on anxiety for a number of reasons, including apprehension over the operations that will be performed, a previous experience that may have been traumatic, or concern for existing mouth pain.
Having a phobia of dentists is widespread for a variety of reasons, including the following:
• An irrational dread of suffering. When a patient has been through a terrible experience in the past, they frequently connect going to the dentist with additional agony. This makes a person anxious. Hearing about the terrible things that have happened to other people might also give rise to this worry.
• The risk of being humiliated in front of others. Some patients could find themselves worrying about things such, "What if the dentist judges me for not taking excellent care of my teeth?" when they go to the dentist. or "what if the dentist lets slip some discouraging information?" Anxiety caused by a fear of being embarrassed is a common symptom of dental anxiety.
• The dread of potential adverse repercussions. Because of the potential for unpleasant consequences following dental procedures, some individuals avoid going to the dentist. These symptoms, which may include nausea or dizziness, may be the result of anxiousness that is caused by previous events.
• Allowing the dentist to work so close to their mouth can make some people feel as like they have lost control, especially considering that patients typically are unable to see what is being done to them during dental procedures.
• Anxiety about the dentist can also be caused by a fear of needles or injections. When someone has a fear of needles, just thinking about getting an injection in their mouth might make them feel much more uncomfortable.
Strategies to help you relax before going to the dentist.
Even if emotions of anxiety around dental appointments and procedures are rather typical, it is still vital to maintain regular dental checkups and cleanings in order to keep oral health in good standing. The following are some strategies that you can use to ease your anxiety and overcome your phobia of dentists:
Keep in mind that everything is going to be all right.
Trusting that your dentist is an experienced professional who has your oral health and well-being in mind is one strategy for reducing the anxiety associated with dental procedures. Find a dentist with high ratings and positive customer reviews, and see if any of those reviews address the concerns you have about going to the dentist. Doing so will help you feel more at ease. It is recommended that you look for a dentist that takes this approach because some of them will specifically treat individuals who suffer from dental fear and will take measures to ease pain and anxiety.
Learn the ins and outs of your coverage before you go.
Talk to your insurance provider before heading to the dentist appointment to clear up any questions or concerns you may have about the dental charges you may incur as well as the percentage of your checkup or treatment that will be covered by your dental insurance. Your present dental anxiety won't have to be compounded by the additional stress of worrying about money.
Talk things over with your dental practitioner.
If your dentist is unaware of how you are truly feeling, they won't be able to assist you in finding healthy coping mechanisms for your anxiety. It is important that you discuss your concerns with the dentist and the staff, either at the time of your appointment or before it. They might be willing to give you a sedative, which will unquestionably make you feel better and reduce your nervousness.
You should also ask them questions about the procedures process, or you may ask them to walk you through the process entirely. This has a calming effect on patients and helps them feel less anxious during dental procedures.
Put on some headphones or watch a show on your mobile device.
When you wear headphones, some of the sounds that could potentially set off your anxiety will be blocked out. In addition, the act of watching something may serve as a welcome diversion from the anxiety.
Take deep breaths in and out.
Your anxiety can be reduced by learning to meditate or practicing deep breathing exercises; this will help you remain relaxed and peaceful throughout your dentist appointment.
Keep regular dentist appointments.
If you go to the dentist for your checkups on a regular basis, you won't have to worry about being nervous or uncomfortable as you might otherwise. These consultations are meant to address any concerns with oral health before they become a problem.
Make sure to ask about any sedation or medication options available.
You might ask the dentist to provide you with nitrous oxide or sedatives to help calm your anxieties before the procedure. Because of this, the process will go smoothly and without any tension.
Why is it so critical to schedule regular appointments at the dentist?
Regular trips to a dentist in your area are necessary if you want to avoid issues with your oral health and cleanliness, such as the following:
At Summerlin Dental Solutions, we make certain that you are only treated by the most qualified dental practitioners and in the most calm environment possible.
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GET TO KNOW YOUR BEST DENTIST IN SUMMERLIN
Dr. Marianne Cohan was voted The Best Dentist/ Dental Office and Best Cosmetic Dentist from The Las Vegas Review-Journal in 2020 and 2021. She received her Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) from the State University of New York at Buffalo in 1992.
With an emphasis on cosmetic dentistry, complete makeovers, and implant dentistry, Dr. Cohan is committed to continuing education and feels that we never stop learning. Dr. Cohan takes pride in using high-powered magnification to perform minimally invasive restorative dentistry. She uses all the latest technological advances including digital radiography, digital photography, computer simulations, and high-resolution pictures of your proposed treatment on 55-inch screens. She also utilizes CBCT (cone beam) and laser technology.
Dr. Cohan is always available to her patients and is available for any dental emergency.
