How To Get Over Dental Phobia

Photo by Caroline LM on Unsplash

Visiting the dentist is one of those things that has to be done as part of your healthcare routine. But no one really likes going to the dentist. Yet there are many people who actively hate it. From feeling a little anxious to avoid the dentist for years at a time.

 

Why it’s important to visit the dentist

There are many very important reasons that you should visit your dentist regularly. For a start, your dentist can help you to keep your smile healthy, carrying out work as both a cosmetic and emergency dentist if you need treatment quickly. 

Dentists don’t just keep your smile looking good either. They can also have a huge effect on your overall health and wellbeing. Gum disease and dental infection can lead to serious health conditions that affect your heart, kidneys, and even fertility. Dentists are also trained to look out for other potential issues such as oral cancers. Regular trips to the dentist can spot these problems earlier, giving you a better prognosis. 

 

Find a sympathetic dentist

Most dental practices are used to dealing with nervous patients and taking steps to accommodate them. While all dentists should have a reassuring and compassionate manner, it’s not always the case, so if you aren’t happy with your dentist, find a new one. 

A lot of dentists now offer a range of sedative treatments to nervous patients. These can relax you throughout your procedure. In some circumstances, heavy sedation or even general anesthetic can be used so that you aren’t aware of the procedure at all. 

If you find that you’re experiencing a lot of anxiety in the run-up to your dental visit, your doctor may be able to prescribe you something to take before you go. 

 

Listen to music

It is often the sounds of the dentist that scare people. After all, the sound of a drill is terrible even if it’s not near your mouth. Have some noise-canceling headphones with you and listen to some music or a podcast to distract yourself. 

 

Take someone with you

Having someone there for moral support can be very helpful. Taking a friend or family member can be very comforting and they can help take your mind off your appointment. Also, if you’re planning on having sedation, you will need someone with you to make sure that you get home safely. 

 

Make an appointment at a quiet time

When booking an appointment, ask the receptionist when the quietest time is. The atmosphere is likely to be more relaxed and there’s less of a chance of a delay. There’s nothing worse than sitting in the waiting room for an extended period when you’re feeling nervous. 

 

Having a phobia of the dentist is nothing to be embarrassed about, and is quite common. There are many things that you can do in order to make yourself more comfortable and less stressed. While you might never be totally at ease visiting the dentist, being able to overcome a lot of your fears is great for your health.