Dental fear or anxiety is a very real, and often crippling problem that can spiral out of control. In fact, it is estimated that 36 percent of the population suffers from dental anxiety, with another 12 percent suffering from a more serious fear of dental problems.
The trouble is that avoiding going to the dentist can compound an existing problem, and by the time you do seek dental treatment, it will be much more serious than it would have been if you had regular check-ups. Dentists like those at Sloan Creek Dental near Allen, TX understand how important it is for patients to keep regular tooth checkups in order to catch any dental problems early, so here are some pointers to help those who are afraid of going to the dentist.
Table of Contents
Talk to your Dentist about your Dental Anxiety
The best way to start is by talking with your dentist about your concerns. They want to help you, and they definitely want to help prevent cavities! Find out what the options are for getting rid of the fear, and talk with them about it.
You aren’t the first person to be afraid of the dentist, and you certainly won’t be the last. Your dentist has probably seen it all before, so if you’re nervous, talking to them before the visit can really help. This will allow the dentist to explain what to expect during your visit and allow you to ask any questions or express any concerns you may have. They are here to assist you and will gladly talk you through any issues you may have in order to make your visit as stress-free as possible.
Check out their Google Reviews
If you haven’t visited the dentist in a while, either due to fear or because you’ve moved and haven’t yet found a new dentist, it’s a good idea to look up any internet reviews. People frequently share both their positive and negative dental experiences on social media, which can help you locate a compassionate dentist who understands your concerns.
Bring a Friend or Family Member for Support
Having someone accompany you to your dentist appointment, someone who understands your fears, can help you feel less anxious. This could be a family member or a friend. This way, if you become afraid during your visit and are unable to communicate, they will be able to speak for you.
Take your Time – It’s ok to take a Break
If you’re concerned that your routine check-up will result in treatment for a dental problem or perhaps a visit to the hygienist, request that things be done slowly so you can get used to it. If that’s all you can handle, but they insist on having your teeth cleaned, inquire if it’s possible to schedule this as a second session. Your dentist is there to assist you, and while their primary goal is to treat your teeth, they also want you to be satisfied with the results.
See if there are any other Types of Sedation
If the idea of receiving an anesthetic injection for dental treatment makes you nervous, talk to your dentist about other possibilities. A topical gel can often be used instead of an injection to numb your mouth, and it is a highly useful alternative that allows your dentist to work on your mouth without causing you any discomfort.
Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be nervous about going to the dentist. In fact, the professionals who work in the dental field would love to talk with you about your concerns and help you discover solutions that work for you. Communication is key to getting the dental care you need.
