Many of us experience anxiety and fear when visiting the dentist (or even just in general). This anxiety may be brought on by a previous unpleasant experience or a generalized fear of dental operations based on the stories we’ve heard, seeing our grandparents with dentures or even just our low pain tolerance. Avoiding the dentist in the long run can make it challenging to maintain good oral health. However, there are techniques for overcoming dental phobia and making your visits easier. 

Doing your research and choosing your own dentist

Finding a dentist with whom you are at ease is one of the most crucial steps in conquering dental anxiety. Do your due diligence, communicate what you want and expectations during your appointment, and don’t be afraid to switch dentists or even clinics. Make sure you choose someone who will take the time to listen to your worries and who has expertise and compassion in treating patients who have dental anxiety. For more extreme cases, you can even look into dental practices that offer sedation dentistry. 

Don't be scared to communicate to your dentist about your worries and fears. Tell them what you’ve been through. Let them know what scares you or makes you uncomfortable. If it’s the sound of the drills, bring headphones. If it’s the discomfort of the procedure, ask to be numbed. If its the local anaesthetic injection, see if they offer numbing cream first. Your dentist can work with you to develop a treatment plan that is suited to your needs and comfort level if you are upfront and honest with them from the get go.

Techniques for distraction might also be beneficial in lowering dental anxiety. Ask your dentist if they have a TV or movie screen you may watch while having your procedure. Some dentists also offer stress balls, facial vibrations or fidget toys to play with during the visit.

Consider sedation dentistry if your dental anxiety is particularly bad. This entails taking medication to make you more comfortable during the process. Nitrous oxide (laughing gas), oral sedation, and/or IV sedation are just a few of the different methods of sedation dentistry that are offered in Australia.

Keep in mind the advantages of having good oral health

Finally, it's critical to keep in mind the advantages of good oral health. Tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues can be avoided with regular dental examinations and cleans. You may enhance your general health and well-being by taking care of your oral health.

There are many methods for overcoming this phobia and easing dental visits. You can manage your dental anxiety and preserve good oral health for years to come by finding a dentist you feel at ease with, communicating your fears and concerns, using relaxation and distraction techniques, thinking about sedation dentistry, and reminding yourself that good oral hygiene practices will save you a lot of money if you take care of your smile.

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Dental Anxiety: How to Overcome Your Fear