Tips for Overcoming Dental Phobia

06/30/2021 by admin in General Care, Sedation Dentistry, Sleep Dentistry

Dental phobia is a reality for many individuals who suffer from feelings of anxiety at the thought of going to the dentist. While some men and women outright avoid the dentist due to their fears, studies show that a larger percentage of the population only schedules a dental appointment when absolutely necessary. Regular check-ups are essential to maintaining strong, healthy teeth/gums, as well as preventing potentially serious health conditions linked to poor dental care, such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Our dental practice in La Jolla offers several solutions to help alleviate mild to severe dental anxiety; however, natural solutions may also be useful in reducing nervousness before and during your treatment, including:

• Bringing someone you trust to your appointment. Studies show the presence and comfort of a friend/loved one can make anxious patients feel more at ease during their appointment.
• Listening to relaxing music through your headphones during treatment. When played at a quiet volume, your favorite music can provide a distraction from your environment and help you relax.
• Talking to your dentist about your fears. By telling your dentist about your dental phobia, he or she can assist you in coping with treatment by gently guiding you through each stage of treatment, distracting you when necessary, being aware of your pain threshold, and more.
• Practice breathing exercises. Deep breathing exercises and relaxation techniques can help take your mind off treatment and allow you to focus on your breath rather than your fears.
• Inquiring about potential options to make you feel more relaxed. Backed by the ADA, sedation dentistry techniques can be tailored to your specific anxiety levels to help you enjoy a more pleasant treatment experience. Many options available allow you to remain conscious, yet deeply relaxed, during your visit.

Like all responsibilities we often don’t look forward to (or try to avoid), the apprehension before a dental appointment is usually much more unpleasant than the actual visit. In fact, patients who have previously been fearful of going to the dentist commonly consider the time leading up to treatment as the hardest part. In any case, the key to overcoming dental anxiety is to find a gentle and caring dentist who can make you feel at ease during your appointment.

At Scripps Center for Dental Care, our compassionate dental team is committed to making your visit as relaxing, pleasant, and comfortable as possible. Please don’t hesitate to call our office to learn more about how we can help you get the dental care you seek while accommodating your unique individual needs.

• Share