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What about visiting the dentist scares you? The sights? The smells? Have you had a bad experience in the past? If you fear dental visits, and even avoid going because of your fears, then you suffer from dental anxiety and you're not alone. Many people experience some type of anxiousness about going to the dentist, but that doesn't mean you should skip your visit all together. Luckily, there's help for overcoming your dental fears so that you can get the necessary treatment you need. Follow these simple steps to calm your nerves and build your confidence about your next dentist appointment. Why do People Have Anxiety About Dental Visits? People are often anxious about going to the dentist for an array of different reasons, including worrying about the effectiveness of localized anesthetic and feeling that the dentist is rushed. Other factors might include the anticipation of pain, negative past experiences, and even the sterile smell of a dental office. The interruption of a person's normal daily routine to visit the dentist can also trigger anxiety in patients. If not addressed, dental anxiety can lead to unnecessary oral health problems, which can lead to much more time spent in the dental chair for treatment. Speak Up and Express Your Fears If the dentist scares you, then share your concerns with him and his staff. Your dentist is specially trained to handle fearful patients like yourself and can help you feel at ease. After all, how will your dentist ever be able to help you conquer your fears if you never tell him? Once your dentist is aware of your fears and misgivings, then he can adapt your treatments and improve your comfort level. This may include coming up with a simple hand signal during treatment that involves you raising your hand when you are anxious. When your dentist sees your hand raised, he will know to pause treatment and check on your status. If your dentist offers sedation, then sedation dentistry may also be an option for patients with very intense fears or who need to undergo lengthy or extensive treatments. Focus on Something Else If sitting in the dentist chair is stressful for you, then find ways to take your mind off of the treatment at hand. Many dentists today offer a wide selection of amenities, such as audio and video players that you can use to let your mind wander. Or, sit back and try to visualize a warm day on the beach. Once you find a method that works for you, you'll find that much of your worrying was unnecessary and that going to the dentist isn't so bad after all. As dentistry progresses, the treatments and diagnosis provided by your dentist become more sophisticated and comfortable all the time. Once patients learn to express their concerns and establish an open relationship with their dentist, they will see continual improvement with each and every appointment. Talk to your dentist at your next appointment about your concerns, and together, map out a treatment plan that will help you feel at ease.
Sean Hartmen writes for Dr. Siamac Mashod, leading Jacksonville cosmetic dentist. Dr. Mashod received his D.D.S. from the University of Illinois at Chicago. He also maintains memberships in several prestigious associations including the American Dental Association. Offering services in veneers, teeth whitening and implants, Dr. Mashod, Jacksonville emergency dentist, is committed to providing the best quality care.
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