Simple Tricks for Overcoming Dental Anxiety Forever

Dental anxiety is a common phenomenon. Many people experience anxiety at the dentist’s chair. It is normal to feel nervous or fearful at dentists. However, dental anxiety is persistent, intense, and unpredictable. It can prevent you from going to the dentist for regular checkups.

Discuss your fears

Even a little fear or anxiety before checkups and dental procedures is often well justified. Due to pain from past treatment or lack of comprehension of the process, some patients actively avoid going to the dentist for as long as they can. Though your dentist may understand you and accept your hesitations, not talking about your fears can make them worse. Your dentist can help by listening to your concerns and reassuring you that you can significantly improve your oral health through professional care. Talk about the things that bother you and let your dentist know how you would like to be treated to better manage your fears. Communication is the most basic tool in overcoming dental anxiety and fear.

When talking to your dentist, be sure to let them know about your past experiences and if you have trouble getting numbed during the procedure. These details will help your dentist plan your appointments and procedures better to ensure your comfort.

Agree on a signal

Tell your provider how you will communicate during the procedure – raise a hand or wear a buzzer around your neck that will alert them to stop the procedure immediately if you start feeling uncomfortable. Your dentist should understand enough to help you whenever you need it. Surgical procedures, however, require general anesthesia, so you cannot communicate with your dentist at all. 

Talk to your dentist about your fears and agree on a signal to let him know if you need to take a break during the procedure. Some patients like to keep a hand on their cheek or raise their hand to indicate that they are feeling too much pressure and slowly lift the hand up as the dentist continues to advance through the procedure to let them know that they will need a break soon. Others may want to have a small buzzer to alert their dentist if they are feeling anxious and need some break from the dental procedure. 

Take a friend or family member with you for emotional support

If you have a fear of dental procedures and need someone to accompany you to the appointment, or if you are facing a long procedure, ask someone you trust to accompany you for support. This person can encourage you and help you relax during the procedure.

Bring distractions to occupy your mind during procedures

Bring a distraction like a book or music to help ease your anxiety during the procedure. Practice relaxation techniques such as meditation to ease your nerves as well. Most importantly, always communicate with your dentist about your fears and concerns. The dentist will find a way to alleviate these fears and ensure your comfort throughout the treatment process!

Make an appointment with us today at (432) 570-7080 or email us at primarydentalclinic@gmail.com for further questions. Get in touch with our office at 4519 N Garfield St., Suite 16A, Midland, TX 79705.