We all know that biannual visits to the dentist play an important role in our oral health, and yet, many of us avoid these appointments due to dental anxiety. If you fall into this category, you’re not alone: As much as 36 percent of the population suffers from this fear.
For today’s blog post, let’s consider six tips for coping with dental anxiety.
1. Talk to your dentist!
It’s important to communicate your concerns to your dentist. You can ask them questions about an upcoming procedure or ask them to show you each tool that they’ll be using during your check-up. They can also recommend techniques (like our second tip!) to help you feel more comfortable. The more prepared you are, the less fearful or worried you’ll be.
2. Practice deep breathing.
Mindful breathing exercises can immediately reduce your stress during your appointment. Start by closing your eyes and taking a slow, four-count inhale through your nose. Hold it for four seconds. Then, slowly exhale through your mouth for four seconds. Repeat this several times until your mind is relaxed.
You can also practice mantra breathing: As you breathe in, think to yourself, “I am safe.” As you breathe out, think to yourself, “I am okay.”
3. Meditate.
It’s common for dental anxiety to worsen as you sit in the waiting room or even after you climb into the dental chair. Meditation is a great option when you need to decrease your anxious thoughts in the moment. For an easy, self-guided meditation, close your eyes and completely relax your muscles. You can start at your head and move towards your feet as you release any tension.
Another common grounding exercise is to identify five things you can see, four things you can touch, three things you can hear, two things you can smell, and one thing you can taste. If you need more guidance, download a meditation app (like Calm or Headspace) and pop in your headphones before your cleaning begins.
4. Distract yourself!
If it’s helpful, download an audiobook or favorite podcast to listen to during your cleaning. You can even listen to your favorite playlist or calming music, like piano tunes. You can also call ahead of time to see if you can watch a particular show or movie.
5. Bring a friend.
The support of a loved one can help to calm your nerves. Ask your dentist if a friend or family member can accompany you to your appointment. Although you won’t be able to talk to them for part of your appointment, you may be able to hold their hand. Just knowing they’re there might be enough too!
6. Consider medication options.
For moderate anxiety, your dentist may prescribe a fast-acting anti-anxiety medication that you can take at least one hour before your visit. For more severe dental anxiety, you may want to look into conscious sedation options. You’ll take an oral sedative a few hours before your appointment. You’ll remain awake and responsive but in a very relaxed state.
We hope these tips for coping with dental anxiety will help you at your next appointment.
Reach out to Maitland Ave Smile Co. for your dental care!
Call us at 407.834.0330 to schedule your appointment today! Check out our Dental Blog to learn more about topics like restorative dentistry, dental anxiety, and more.