Did you know that up to 80% of adults in the United States suffer from some form of dental anxiety?
For some, dental anxiety stems from a bad doctor from the past, while others just panic when they are in the chair.
No matter what your reason is for getting anxious, there are ways to relieve some of the discomforts.
Keep reading if you want to learn some of the latest and most effective tactics for dealing with dental anxiety!
Communicate with Your Dentist
One of the most effective ways of dealing with dental anxiety is to communicate with your dentist.
The more that your dentist understands you, the easier it will be for them to make you more comfortable. Talk to them about any concerns or past experiences that you have had, especially ones contributing to the anxiety.
Not only can the dentist make accommodations, but they can also help guide and teach you through the coping process.
Listen to Music
No matter how simple dental treatments and cleanings are, they can be overwhelming.
Listening to your favorite music or something soothing can change your mood while sitting in the office. A lot of people get anxious at the dentist when they hear all of the noises coming from their mouths. The metal tools, suction, and water can increase anxiety, but music will help drown it all out.
Try to bring small headphones that won’t get in the way during your appointment. While they are working in your mouth, turn the sound up and close your eyes to find some relief.
Bring a Friend
If you have a local dentist and a friend that could help, you should give them a call.
Most people bring a friend when they are getting Tooth extractions, partially for the distraction and also for help driving home. Having a friend or family member with you can serve multiple purposes that make you more comfortable and relaxed. When you get nervous or overwhelmed, they can help to get you to smile or think of something else.
Practice Deep Breathing
Deep breathing exercises have helped people cope with anxious moments for many decades.
No matter where you are or who you are around, you can control your breathing. When you can control your breathing, it is much easier to control emotions and work through them logically. Do your best to do all of the breathing through your nose.
Take a deep breath in for about 10 seconds, hold it, and then slowly release the air and inhale again. You can focus on breathing while you sit in the waiting room and while the dentist is doing work on your mouth.
Find Relief from Dental Anxiety
Dental anxiety is a very common problem that people deal with, and fortunately, people have found ways to relieve stress.
If your heart rate races before dental appointments, try using some of these tactics to get control of your emotions and mind. Music and friends are wonderful distractions from dental visits, however, these aren’t your only options.
Don’t be afraid to talk to your dentist about any concerns you have. They can help teach you, provide reassurance, and adapt.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about dental procedures and maintaining optimal health!
