Afraid of the Dentist? 5 Ways to Reduce Dental Anxiety

Talk to your dentist

There’s something about having information on anything unknown that makes us feel less afraid or at least more self-confident handling the unknown. If dentistry is an unknown topic, consider educating yourself by asking your dentist lots of questions. Contact Oceanside Dental Excellence. We’re willing to listen to your fearful thoughts and concerns so we can better assure you.

Meditate

Studies show how incorporating a 10-minute meditation routine can increase our overall feeling of wellness considerably. Think of meditation as a way for you to focus on the present moment and be comfortable with a subtle feeling of relaxation. This will provide a sense of peace we don’t always experience in our day-to-day lives. Ask yourself, “When was the last time I dedicated time to focus on the present moment and simply watch life pass, instead of trying to control everything.” With meditation, we can tune in to our natural way of being and more easily distinguish the difference between an authentic threat and an anxious thought.

Bring a friend or family member to your appointments

Sometimes modifying your environment in a way that’s more familiar will reduce uneasiness. A good way of doing this is to bring someone familiar to your dental appointments who can provide emotional support. This could be a close friend or family member who understands how you feel. You should bring someone who is prepared to talk you out of negative thinking patterns. Your companion ideally will comprehend they are there for you and that this isn’t so much about the two of you hanging out socializing. Make sure they are up to the challenge!

Practice good oral hygiene

By having first-rate oral hygiene you can feel more self-confident about your next visit to the dentist. With excellent dental care, you can go to the dentist with a lower chance of having a root canal or being diagnosed with gingivitis, the onset of periodontal disease. See why these conditions may worsen your nervousness? If you were diagnosed with gingivitis, your mind would have logical reasons for feeling nervous which is not what we want. However, if you’ve been doing the regular brushing and flossing as recommended then there isn’t as much to stress about.

Try Sedation Dentistry

Sedation dentistry offers significant benefits for individuals with dental anxiety, making dental visits much more comfortable and manageable. By using safe and effective sedative techniques, patients can experience reduced stress and fear, allowing them to undergo necessary dental procedures without discomfort or heightened anxiety. This approach not only helps in alleviating the fear of dental visits but also ensures that patients receive the comprehensive care they need to maintain their oral health. Sedation dentistry can transform the dental experience, promoting relaxation and fostering a positive attitude towards future dental care.

We look forward to aiding in your comfort with the dental experience.