If you worry about going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is very common, affecting both children and adults. Whether it’s a fear of pain, concern over a scary treatment, lack of personal space, or embarrassment from imperfect teeth, your dental anxiety can be helped with a few coping tips and strategies. Here are five ways to calm your dental anxieties.

Tell your dentist about your fears. Being open and honest about your feelings with your dentist can allow your dentist to do their best to help calm your nerves. Whether this means being more gentle, talking with you beforehand, or playing music, it’s important to be transparent about what you’re feeling.

Ask the dentist to explain what you can expect beforehand. Having your doctor explain certain treatments beforehand can answer any questions you may have and can help calm your worries. Be sure to remind your dentist that you find this helpful. 

Practice a deep breathing technique. Remembering to breathe is a key part of staying calm during a dental procedure. If you find yourself getting anxious before an appointment, most smartphones and watches have handy deep breathing and meditation apps to help you relax while you wait.

Visit your dentist regularly. This may sound counterintuitive but avoiding appointments or prolonging appointments can actually make your anxiety worse. When you see your dentist every six months, there are fewer unknowns and the process feels more comfortable and routine.

Consider additional medication. If other calming techniques don’t help, there are other options. In some cases, dentists may offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) to patients who need help reducing nervousness. If a procedure is going to be lengthy or particularly difficult, some dentists may recommend sedation to help a patient feel more at ease.

Schedule an Appointment Today

If you struggle with dentist anxiety, we are happy to help. We can answer any questions you may have and discuss various options with you to ensure you’re comfortable with any dental treatment you may need. Make an appointment with us today!