Tips And Tricks To Ease Dental Fear

Dental anxiety is a common issue faced by people. Dental anxiety is the fear of visiting the dentist. It can range from low to moderate to severe. It often stems from a bad past experience. If you have dental fear, here are a few tips and tricks that will help you.

Speak up about your fears

It’s important that you tell your dentist about any fears or anxiety you have about your upcoming procedure. By talking openly with your dentist, you can work together to eliminate the fear you’re feeling and come up with a plan that will work for you. If you aren’t comfortable speaking up about your fear in a consultation or exam, you can always let the dentist know before the procedure starts so you can discuss it before the appointment even begins.

Agree on a signal

Sometimes, it’s helpful to give your dentist a heads-up about your anxiety level. You can provide written consent for your dentist to sedate you or prescribe oral medication for your comfort. Before your appointment, let your dentist know if you have anything in particular that makes you uncomfortable. Your dentist may recommend a signal to use when you need to take a break. This could be raising your hand, tapping on the table, or closing your eyes and breathing deeply.

Take a trusted person with you

If you are undergoing several treatments, you may want to ask a friend or family member to accompany you to appointments to make sure you can stay on track with your treatment plan. Having a loved one there can help you feel more relaxed during your visits. And if you experience any pain or have questions, that person can speak up on your behalf. Just make sure you both agree on a signal to use if you need to speak with the dentist in between your visits. Your loved ones can also act as support systems while you adjust to your new smile!

Bring distractions

Use your smartphone to listen to your favorite music or podcasts. Ask your dentist for a pair of headphones so you can listen to music during your appointment. Consider bringing along a book to read or a notebook to jot down any thoughts that arise while you are in the chair. You can also bring other comfort items like blankets and stuffed animals from home. Just ensure these items don’t interfere with your treatment. These items also help with relaxation.

Consider sedation dentistry

If the idea of going to the dentist makes you feel anxious or fearful, consider sedation dentistry. We offer nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation that may help you relax while providing the care you need. Nitrous oxide is inhaled through a mask during your procedure. It can help you feel more relaxed and at ease during your appointment. Oral conscious sedation is administered orally in pill form to help you feel calm and relaxed throughout your entire appointment. Both forms of sedation can be used in combination with one another for truly effective results. During your visit, we will talk to you about your medical history, any medications you are taking, and any behaviors that make you uncomfortable during your visit. We will also review your current oral health to ensure you are a good candidate for sedation. With the proper precautions in place, you should have no problem at all feeling more comfortable and relaxed during your visits. 

If you are looking for ways to enjoy comfortable dental care, schedule a consultation with Cascade Family Dental. We are located at 925 Corporate Center Pkwy., Suite-G, Santa Rosa, CA 95407. Contact us at (707) 635-6565 or visit our website to book an appointment.