Visiting the dentist is something that everyone should do at least once a year. This is the opportunity for a professional to inspect your teeth, identify any issues early, and help to ensure they are resolved. An annual checkup can help you to keep your own teeth into old age.
Unfortunately, for many people, this isn’t an option and it’s not because they can’t afford the dentist. It’s estimated that one in six Australian adults has a fear of the dentist.
The good news is that this doesn’t have to stop you from going to the dentist, you simply need to learn how to deal with dental anxiety.
Find The Right Dentist
All dentists are fully trained and qualified, they can look after your oral health. However, not all dentists are appreciative and supportive of dental anxiety. You need to find one that is, such as this dentist Campsie.
They will take things slowly for you and even undertake partial treatments where possible to make it easier for you. Most importantly, they will be sympathetic and supportive, helping you to relax and overcome your fear.
Visit First
Another technique you should employ is to visit the dentist when you don’t have an appointment. Doing this several times will normalize the procedure of going to the dentist and sitting in the waiting room. This will make it easier when you go for real. You may be anxious but your mind will keep you going on autopilot.
Book The Right Time
It is essential that you choose a time where you will not be rushed getting to the dentist and don’t have to rush to be anywhere else. This removes distractions that can make you stressed and allows you to feel more relaxed at the dentist.
Merge this with relaxation techniques, such as breathing exercises and meditation, and you are halfway there!
Keep Distracted!
On the one hand, you need to avoid stressful distractions. But, this will leave you open to sitting and thinking about the dentist, potentially making your fear worse.
That’s why you need to find ways to keep yourself distracted, such as reading a book or listening to music. This will keep you positively distracted until it is time to see the dentist.
Tell Your Dentist
This can seem obvious but many people suffering from dental anxiety fail to tell their dentist. If they don’t know you are struggling they can’t help! By telling them they will be able to accommodate you better, guiding you through what they are doing, and keeping things calm.
Don’t forget, the first appointment is just a checkup, it’s highly unlikely that they will do anything other than look at your teeth. Knowing this should help you visit the dentist with confidence.
Create A Schedule
As an adult, it is important to book a checkup as soon as you have had one. That makes it harder to put off booking an appointment.
If you have children then make the appointments for them and make sure they go regularly. You won’t just be looking after their teeth, you’ll be helping to ensure they create a habit and avoid your dental phobia in the future.
Speak Your Mind