Fear of the dentist is common among many adults. People associate the dentist with a loss of control and personal space. Others don’t like the feeling anesthesia gives them.
Dental health is essential, so you can’t avoid going to the dentist forever. You can learn what to do to prepare for your dental procedure and what questions to ask to ease your mind.
Here are seven things you should consider before your trip to the dentist’s office. Read on to learn more.
1. Find A Reliable Ride
Some dental procedures require anesthesia or nitrous oxide. It’s not advisable to drive while under the influence of these chemicals as they can impair judgment.
You should get someone you trust to take you home once the dental work is complete. It’s safer for you and others on the road if you’re not behind the wheel after oral surgery.
2. Ask Questions
Your dentist is there to help you. If you have questions about your dental maintenance and health, you should ask. For example, this All-on-4 procedure, certain surgeries come with many caveats you should consider.
You may not have known you can be put to sleep during the all-on-4 surgery without asking your dentist. You should also ask what kind of fillings your dentist’s office uses.
Some dentists still use mercury for their fillings. If you’re uncomfortable with that, you can opt-out of the procedure.
3. Understand the Dental Procedure
You don’t need to understand every minute detail of why you’re going to the dentist. But you should have a slight idea of what you’re getting done. Some dental work requires fasting before the operation.
To ensure everything goes well, you need to know if you’re having maxillofacial surgery or mundane teeth cleaning. If you’re unsure of your appointment, can the office for information.
4. Consider Seeking a Second Opinion
It’s justifiable to assume your dentist knows what they’re doing. We’re not telling you to seek a second opinion because your regular dentist is wrong. You should be aware if they care about your oral hygiene.
One sign your dentist may not be looking out for your best interests is if they refuse to explain x-rays. Be wary of sudden announcements of cavities as well.
5. Consider Arriving Early
Getting to the office 20 to 30 minutes early can make an already stressful even less troublesome. An extra 20 minutes allows you to calm your nerves, fill out paperwork, and answer practitioners’ questions.
6. Create An Area to Recuperate
You’re not going to feel like doing much once you’ve completed your oral surgery. It’s good to create a rest area before the procedure is done.
Pick a spot that you’re most comfortable, and arrange things so they’re convenient your you. Keep in mind that relaxation and recovery is the goal.
7. Be Honest
Your nerves may get the best of you, but you should try to be as honest as possible. Tell the dentist that you’re worried about the procedure.
Your dentist cares about your health. If you’re honest about your feelings, they’re willing to accommodate you to ensure your dental maintenance goes well.
Unnerved by Your Upcoming Dental Procedure?
Before going to the dentist, you should know what you’re getting done. Ask questions about your dental procedure or teeth cleaning to understand what’s happening and if your dentist cares.
Perhaps the most important thing to remember is to be honest, so your dentist can accommodate your nervousness.
If you’re interested in reading about more health-related topics, browse the health tab on the website. We have plenty more helpful and interesting posts you can read.