Dental Services

Dental anxiety or fear of the dentist is a common problem that is faced by millions of people worldwide. It is characterised by a strong sense of fear or nervousness before and during dental procedures. This fear can be caused by several reasons, such as previous bad experiences with dentists, fear of needles or pain, or even a general sense of unease in clinical settings.

Thankfully, there are various ways to overcome dental anxiety which can help to make your dental visits more comfortable and stress-free. Here are the top 7 tips that can help you overcome your dental fears:

1. Choose the right dentist: Choosing the right dentist is crucial for maintaining good dental health. A dentist can help you prevent dental problems, diagnose and treat dental conditions, and provide advice on proper dental care. Your friends, family members or colleagues can help you with referrals  who have had positive experiences with their dentist. Online reviews can also help in finding a dentist who is empathetic, gentle, and understanding.

    

2. Bring a companion: Bringing a companion, either a friend or a family member to your dental appointment can be comforting and reassuring. They can help in providing emotional support and also distract you from your fears. You can also request that your companion be allowed to stay with you during the procedure if that helps you feel more at ease.

    

3. Communicate with your dentist: Communicating your fears and concerns with your dentist is extremely important. Your dentist must know that you are anxious and what exactly triggers your fear and anxiety. By doing so, your dentist can help you feel more comfortable by explaining the procedures, the use of anesthesia, and offering calming techniques like breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, or even sedation.

    

4. Practice good dental hygiene: Proper dental care is important for preventing common dental problems and maintaining good oral health. By brushing and flossing regularly, using an antiseptic mouthwash, limiting your consumption of sugary and acidic foods and drinks, and visiting your dentist regularly for checkups and cleanings, you can help prevent dental problems and minimise the need for complex procedures.

    

5. Use relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques can help alleviate anxiety and reduce stress during dental procedures to a great extent. Techniques such as breathing exercises, visualisation, or meditation can really help you to  calm your nerves.

    

6. Consider Sedation: If you suffer from severe anxiety, sedation may be an option that can help  you relax during the procedure. Sedation can be administered orally or intravenously, and it can help you feel more at ease during the procedure. Talk to your dentist about the sedation options available and which one should be used according to your condition.

    

7. Reward yourself: You can reward yourself after dental procedures as this can help to reinforce positive associations with dental visits. You can treat yourself to something you enjoy, such as a favorite meal or activity, after the procedure. By doing so, you may find that you are more likely to view dental visits in a positive light.

Dental anxiety can be a challenging problem for many people, but with the right mindset and approach, it is possible to overcome the fear altogether. Keeping the above tips in mind such as choosing the right dentist, communicating your fears, using relaxation techniques, and practicing good dental hygiene, you can minimize your anxiety and make your dental visits more comfortable and stress-free. Remember that regular dental checkups are essential for maintaining good oral health, and overcoming dental anxiety is an important step towards achieving that goal.