Tips To Ease Dental Fear

Dental anxiety is a common problem faced by many people. Some patients experience mild anxiety, while others experience severe anxiety. Dental anxiety can stop patients from seeking dental care, even when it is needed.

It’s normal to be nervous going to the dentist sometimes. Fears and anxieties can be related to specific dental procedures or to visiting the doctor in general. There are ways you can ease your nerves before your appointment and make sure you feel calm in the dentist’s chair.

• Before your visit, discuss your fears and concerns with your dentist so they can tailor their care to your needs. This will help put you at ease during your visit. Talking about your anxiety can be a huge relief for many people. Share your fears with your dentist and hygienist and ask if they can do anything to make you more comfortable. When you have a procedure coming up, discuss ways to manage pain so you’re prepared. It’s helpful to go into your appointments with some idea of what to expect.
• Having something to distract yourself from the sights, smells, and sounds of the dental office can also help keep you focused during the procedure. Bring headphones to listen to your favorite music during your treatment. 
• You can invite a family member or friend to go with you to your appointments. Having someone you trust around can help you stay calm through the treatment. You can also ask your dentist if it’s okay to bring a friend or family member to sit with you during the exam. They can keep you company and give you support.
• If your fear is really bad, ask about dental sedation. A dentist can provide you with medications that’ll help you relax during treatments. They’ll also give you a general anesthetic that will numb your mouth and prevent you from feeling anything. This is a great option for people who are physically unable to sit still for a long appointment. It’s also helpful for people who have a lot of anxiety and need a lot of help to relax. You can use dental sedation for everything from cleanings and fillings to tooth extractions and root canal therapy.

We hope these suggestions help you feel more at ease when you visit the dentist! 

Schedule an appointment with McConnell Dental Care to learn more. Visit us at 263 Country Club Dr #102, Stansbury Park, UT 84074. Contact us at (435) 249-0482 or visit our website to book an appointment with us.