If you're among the millions of Americans who suffer from some degree of dental phobia, you're hardly alone. According to WebMD, as much as 20 percent of the population has at least some anxiety about visiting the dentist. Whether you've had a bad experience in the past or just find yourself nervous about the cost of your visit, the best strategy is to accept that you're anxious and do what you can to reduce this emotion. It's never a good idea to simply avoid the dentist for as long as you can, given that regular checkups are the best way to keep your mouth healthy. Don't let your anxiety get the better of you. Instead, here's how to proceed.
Ask About Sedation Dentistry
Given the prevalence of people who are anxious about visiting the dentist, many clinics offer sedation dentistry. Contrary to popular myth, experiencing sedation dentistry isn't the same as going under anesthesia; you're sedated but you're not asleep. Rather, you're given a customized degree of sedation that often keeps you awake during the procedure but puts you somewhere in the range between deeply relaxed and nearly falling asleep.
Sedation dentistry isn't just for large procedures, either. Many dentists offer it for routine checkups and cleaning appointments, which should make the thought of visiting the dentist less intimidating.
Share Your Anxiety
Virtually any problem can feel worse when you keep it a secret, but being open about your dental phobia can actually lessen the anxiety you feel. Opening up to your spouse or significant other can certainly alleviate some of your feelings, but making a point of discussing the issue with your dentist is the best strategy. Remember, given the prevalence of dental phobia, dentists are not only experienced in seeing patients with these concerns, but are also trained in helping patients through their fear. Although it's easy to feel a little embarrassed about opening up, remember that nearly one in five people are contending with the same feelings as you.
Identify What Concerns You
With dental phobia so common, people who identify as having this issue can suffer from a wide range of issues related to visiting the dentist. Think about what concerns you the most and take steps to address it. For example, if you have a fear of not understanding an upcoming procedure, spend time researching it online. If you struggle with the sounds of dental tools, take earplugs or listen to music during your appointment. Connecting with other like-minded people in an online dental photo support group, of which there are many, can help you feel the support of a network of peers.
For more information on successfully completing your dental work, contact a company like Claremont Dental Institute.
Share11 June 2015
My son was outside playing with some friends when he accidentally fell down and hit his mouth on the sidewalk. The fall knocked out his front tooth, so I immediately placed the tooth in a small jar and added some milk. I rushed my son to the dental clinic and the dentist immediately took us into the examination room. The dentist placed the tooth back into the socket and saved it. My name is Beverly Tillman and thanks to the quick work of the dentist, my son didn't lose his tooth. Since this was a scary time for me and my son, I wanted to write this blog as a source of information for other parents who are facing a dental emergency. First of all, don't panic and get to your dentist as soon as possible. I hope this blog will help to answer your questions about dental emergencies.