10 Tips to Help You Overcome Dental Fear
Fear of the dentist is incredibly common to all generations of people. Even though dental technology and techniques are nowadays so advanced that the experience is less painful than ever before (and in many cases completely pain-free) many people still find going to the dentist so terrifying they would in fact avoid the experience altogether. If this is you, or someone close to you, read these tips how to overcome dental fear and the next time you have an appointment, just keep in mind that dentists are human beings too, who assume how you feel about them.
Certain extent of anxiety is normal before going to the dentist, or any doctor for that matter. But if it prevents you from going to the dentist and maintaining your oral health, you may try taking some measures in order to prevent it. Surveys show that 5-8% of Americans completely avoid dentists out of fear and 20% seek dental treatment only when necessary, which means only when they experience severe tooth pain.
Why is that so? Where does this, usually irrational, fear come from?
Dental anxiety, fear, or phobia are sometimes caused by unpleasant past experiences. People who had an extremely painful treatment or severe dental complications in the past may develop fear of any future dental procedure.
People also have fear of pain in general and at the dentist they fell completely exposed and vulnerable. We have to point out that dental anxiety, fear, and phobia are actually three levels of discomfort. A certain amount of attention to pain is a normal human reaction that helped people though evolution by signaling danger and preparing them to deal with it, so anxiety is acceptable. It is the feeling of being worried or uneasy. Fear is a reaction in our body to a known danger that makes us hide or run away. However, if people are paralyzed by their fears, not being able to think rationally, they may be facing a phobia. Phobia is the most intense level of fear and panic that, in this case, prevents people from going to the dentist.
Some people may dislike the fact that they are not in control over anything going on. This loss of control while lying on a dental chair and not having an idea of what is going on in their mouth makes them feel helpless and anxious.
People who are acutely self-conscious may feel embarrassed or ashamed when the dentist looks inside their mouths. Moreover, shy people might also feel discomfort because there is a relatively small distance between them and the dentist during procedure.
Dental anxiety, fear, and phobia do not just result in poor oral health. They also affect a person’s well-being because poor oral health can cause low self-esteem and self-doubt.
So what can you do to help yourself overcome dental anxiety, fear or phobia? Overcoming any fear is firstly a matter of our decision and willingness to cope with it. Being determined is crucial for success.
Here are some helpful tips:
1. Recognize your Fears & Communicate Them
It is absolutely essential to understand your feelings. Many find it helpful to write their fears down, because it helps recognize them and being able to talk about them clearly. Good communication is the foundation of any great relationship. Talk to your dentist about the fears you experience and how willing you are to solve them, with his or her help. This way, you will make it easier for both of you to succeed in treating your anxiety. Moreover, you can talk to your dentist about making pauses in treatment when you need them.
2. Find the Right Dentist
A huge part of overcoming your dental fears is finding a trustworthy dentist. Ask family and friends for recommendations or surf the Internet, check dental websites as well as ranking websites looking for dentists who have experience in treating patients with anxiety. Once you have found a suitable candidate, you can also visit the practice and talk to the staff in person and see how you feel around them and if they seem patient, kind and understanding of your fears.
3. Reduce Your Fears Step by Step
Start with simpler treatments so that you can gradually feel more and more relaxed on the dental chair. The point is not just getting it done, it should be about creating a good, relaxed atmosphere, so that any fear or anxiety can be reduced. Later on, when you feel ready, you can proceed to more complex procedures.
4. Bring a Companion
A close friend or family member can keep you company during your dental visit, or even stand by your side and encourage you during the process. Choose someone who does not have dental fears himself.
5. Timing Is Everything
Some might find it helpful to visit the dentist early in the morning so that you do not think about the appointment all day long. So, if possible, schedule the appointment as early as possible and enjoy the rest of the day after getting it done.
6. Local Anesthetics
Local anesthetics can ease the pain and discomfort, making you feel relaxed and calm. Talk to your dentist about the possibilities and which works best in your case.
7. Relax and Meditate
Controlled breathing techniques can help you relax and stay calm during treatment. Take a big breath and let it out very slowly. This will help slow your heartbeat and relax your muscles.
8. Use Distractions
Distractions can help you take your mind off the procedure. You can listen to your favorite music, squeeze and play with a stress ball or simply think about beautiful memories, your pet or anything you find lovely and relaxing.
9. Visit More Often for Routine Cleaning
If you schedule your appointments regularly, most of them will be routine treatments and you will solve potential oral problems before they get out of hand and consequently avoid more painful procedures.
A dental treatment will surely have a positive end result – you will either get rid of those dreadful cavities, cure an overly sensitive tooth or have your teeth whitened. Whatever the treatment may be, it will make your smile more beautiful than before. So, keep this in mind when going to the dentist.
10. Reward Yourself
Once you have finished a particular dental treatment, feel free to reward yourself. Treat yourself with a nice piece of clothing or with a relaxing weekend trip. This may become your routine after successfully completing a dental treatment.
All in all, be sure that your dentist will do everything to minimize the pain and luckily, there are many technological advances that can do the trick. Also, dentists are well aware of the fact that some people might fear them and therefore they will do everything to make the atmosphere comfortable for their patients. They can also recognize the fear on their patients' faces when they see them. Most of them will try to encourage you and reassure you of your fears. You dentist will help you have dental treatments in a way that feels calm and safe.
Keep in mind, the point of a dental visit is to improve your oral health and perfect your smile. And your dentist is your partner on your path towards a healthy mouth.