Going to see your dentist can be overwhelming at times and a lot of people put it off because of it. However not seeing the dentist regularly can lead to dental problems you couldn’t foresee and force you to spend even more time in the chair. That’s why we are here to ease your worries with 6 tips on how not fear the dentist.
1) Acknowledge Your Worries
Admitting to yourself that you feel anxious about going to the dentist is the first step in helping you deal with it. Really think about what it is that worries you and write them down. Are you concerned about the pain or about feeling like you have no control when you’re in the chair? Are you worried about feeling a bit claustrophobic when the light shines down at you whilst the dentist looks inside your mouth?
Trying to clearly identify what it is that worries you about the dentist will help you find a way to deal with it. It is highly important to have a dentist that you trust and feel comfortable with. Communication is key here, so make sure you voice your concerns the first time you go to in for an appointment.
2) Get A Custom Plan
When you have the right dentist, they will work with you to ensure that they create an action plan that will work specifically for you, to eases all your worries, apprehensions and fears. Whether that means starting slow and having a couple of appointments for you to just get used to being in the chair or explaining everything very clearly and in detail so you know exactly what to expect and when to expect it, it will get you more comfortable with the situation and ease you into any treatments you might need. You and your dentist can also agree on a symbol that you can give if you start feeling uncomfortable or anxious. This way you will always be able to pause if you need a little break.
3) Have Someone Come With You
Bringing someone you trust and feel comfortable with to the appointment can make you a lot more relaxed during it. It’s best of course that it is someone who has no fears of dentists, so they don’t stress you out even more.
4) Book A Morning Appointment
Studies have shown that doing the toughest things first, makes you feel effective, makes you avoid the ‘looming’ feeling and helps you practice your will power. Successful people like to do the biggest thing of each day first. Take away from this and book a morning appointment. For example, our spas are open as early as 8:30am! It will stop you from having dreadful apprehension all day.
5) Use Distractions
Having someone come along with you is a great distraction, but you can also try out other things. See if it’s possible for you to listen to some music whilst the treatment is happening or find something to play around with, such as a stress ball. Noise cancelling headphones also work well or even ear buds, if you think your anxiety may be due to the sounds of the equipment working. If none of those are an option, you can always recite the timetable or try memorizing the alphabet backwards.
6) Reward Yourself
Come up with something you’ll treat yourself to after the appointment. It’ll give you something to think about and look forward! It can be absolutely anything as well, whether it’s something you’ve wanted to buy for a little while or its getting a nice lunch or dinner out, come up with something you will enjoy and get excited for!
Feeling anxious of the dentist is very common but it shouldn’t deter you from looking after your oral health. Follow our tips and book an appointment with one of our friendly specialists to further discuss your concerns and ways we can help you overcome them.
