3 Ways to Conquer Your Dental Anxiety
Are you one of the millions who suffer from dental anxiety? Don’t let fear of going to the dentist put your health at risk. If you or your child need dental anxiety help, this post is for you!
How Common Is Anxiety at the Dentist?
Believe it or not, dental anxiety is incredibly common. Studies show that anywhere from 35% to 80% of the population experiences some level of dental anxiety. This fear can range from mild uneasiness to full-blown panic attacks.
Not sure if your fear of the dentist is anxiety or general nervousness? Many people feel tense about going to the dentist. For example, you may feel a minor sense of dread the morning of your appointment. Or, you may tense up in the chair. However, the experience of full-blown anxiety or panic is less common, but still an issue for some dental patients. Anxiety can lead to more extreme or physical symptoms and can even result in the avoidance of dental care. It’s important to consider the feelings you’re dealing with, so that you can manage or even overcome them. Here are some common dental anxiety symptoms you might experience.
- Physical symptoms: Increased heart rate, sweating, shortness of breath, nausea, dizziness, and muscle tension.
- Emotional symptoms: Fear, dread, anticipation, anxiety, a sense of overwhelm, or a sense of loss of control.
- Behavioral symptoms: Avoiding dental appointments altogether, sleep issues before appointments, and canceling appointments at the last minute.
You’re not alone if you recognize any of these symptoms in yourself. And luckily, there are many effective ways to manage your dental anxiety. Keep reading to discover three ways to conquer your fear and prevent an anxiety attack at the dentist.
3 Ways to Conquer Your Dental Anxiety
Are you ready to ditch the dental chair dread? Let’s explore three powerful strategies to overcome dental anxiety for good!
Tip #1: Be Honest and Communicate Your Fears
Let your dentist know that you experience dental anxiety. A good dentist will understand and happily work with you to create a comfortable and positive experience. Talk to them about your fears and preferences. This open communication can help ease your anxieties and allow your dentist to tailor their approach to make you feel more in control.
For the record, Pleasant Dental is a judgment-free environment. We ask all new patients to share any anxieties in their new patient paperwork, so please don’t be afraid to speak up. We genuinely want to make sure your experience is as pleasant as possible!
Are you nervous about your dentist apointment but need treatment?
The team at Pleasant Dental specializes in helping dental patients with anxiety!
Call TODAY! (336) 738 3661
Tip #2: Try Distraction Techniques
Take your mind off the procedure! During your appointment, distraction is often one of the best forms of dental anxiety treatment. You can bring headphones and listen to your favorite music, audiobooks, or podcasts.
Or, at Pleasant Dental, you can watch your favorite movie or TV show! TVs on the wall and ceiling in every treatment room make it easy to get comfortable and enjoy your appointment. Yes, it’s possible to enjoy a dental visit.
With features like low lighting in the treatment rooms and complimentary sunglasses to wear during your treatment, our compassionate team makes every effort to ensure your comfort. Need another way to keep your mind off the appointment? Bring a squeeze ball or fidget toys to help keep your hands busy. You can even pack your favorite blanket if you’d like or we can provide one for you !
Tip #3: Explore Relaxation Techniques for Dental Anxiety
Want a free and easy way to calm your body and mind? Practice relaxation techniques before and during your appointment. Deep breathing exercises are a great way to slow your heart rate and reduce overall tension. Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in your body individually. You can also try meditation or visualization techniques to focus on calm imagery and positive thoughts.
Schedule Your Anxiety-Free Dentist Appointment with the Friendly Team at Pleasant Dental
You don’t have to be afraid of the dentist any longer. Schedule your visit today and take the first step toward overcoming your fear!
Bonus Tip: if you struggle with dental anxiety or a fear of dentist appointments, ask for an early morning appointment. There’s no need to sit around, worry, or dread your visit all day. Pleasant Dental offers plenty of appointment options to fit your needs and schedule. So, let our team members know if early mornings work best for you.
I’m ready to overcome my dental anxiety!
“I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.”
– Nelson Mandela
