Most people don’t like going to the dentist. In fact, many people would undoubtedly avoid going at all if they could.
If you’re one of the many people who are scared of the dentist, don’t worry. Below, you can find a few tips that might prove helpful. These tips can help to make your time at the dentist a little less daunting.
Find A Dentist You Can Trust
Ideally, you will be able to find a dentist that you can trust completely. This may seem hard to imagine but it is possible. Whether you look for a regular or sedation dentist, there may be someone you can trust.
Call the dentist’s surgery and tell them that you’re anxious about seeing a dentist. It’s likely that they will understand. You’ll not be the only person to have a fear of the dentist.
Some dental surgeries will even invite you to meet the team before you arrange an appointment. This can help you to get a feel for and become familiar with the building.
Have a look in your local area for a dentist who can help with your anxieties. It’s likely that there will be more than a few available.
Visit Your Dentist Regularly
From time to time, you will need work carried out on your teeth. However, the longer you leave it between appointments, the worse things can get. Your anxiety can grow and your teeth-related issues could become worse.
Try to visit your dentist regularly so that you become used to seeing them. When you do, your teeth are much more likely to be in a better condition.
Waiting too long to see the dentist could result in you feeling more anxious than you really need to. Book an appointment today. The sooner you see your dentist the sooner they can deal with any tooth-related issues.
Learn How To Relax
While relaxing can be easier said than done, it is possible to relax at the dentists. Take a deep breath whenever you’re feeling anxious. Try to relax your muscles and breathe slowly. When you do, you’re less likely to catastrophize. You may also find that the dentists is a much more pleasant place to be. Do what you can to relax as it could help you to manage your anxieties.
Take A Break
Before you get in the dentist’s chair come up with a signal to give to your dentist. When you make the signal the dentist will know you need to take a break.
Raise your hand, for example, if you need to stop. This way, you’ll be able to tell the dentist that you need a bit of time out without trying to say anything.
Most dentists will be very understanding. They may even spot that you need time out before you raise your hand.
When it comes to taking time out, stand up and breathe slowly. Relax and lower your heart rate. When you’re sufficiently calm, get back in the dentist’s chair,
Try to Distract Yourself
If you can, try to distract yourself. Let your mind wander during your appointment. Try to think about those things that you like. Think about your favorite music, those places you love to visit, and your favorite movies.
Do what you can to distract yourself as you’re more likely to make it through your appointment. Some dentists may even let you listen to some music while they’re carrying out work. Use this to your advantage.
Ask Someone To Come With You
Ask someone to come to the dentist with you. Make sure it’s someone you trust. When you have someone with you they can help to make your appointment seem easier. Talk to this person about how you’re feeling. You never know, they may also feel the same.
Ask if your chosen person can come with you into the dentist’s room. They can sit in the corner and keep an eye on you. Knowing that someone you trust is there can be a great help. Their presence can help you to stay calm.
Reward Yourself For Seeing Your Dentist
One of the very best things that you can do is to reward yourself. Sitting in the dentist’s chair is never very easy. However, knowing that you’re going to be rewarded makes things easier.
Think about how you would like to reward yourself. Perhaps you can meet up with friends. You could go and see a movie or enjoy a meal in your favorite restaurant. Do what you need to so that you feel rewarded for doing something uncomfortable.
Most people tend to dislike seeing their dentist. However, if you have a real fear of them, there are some things you can do. Use the above tips to help you make your next appointment much more manageable.
