Easing Dental Anxiety: Coping Methods that Can Help

We get it — it’s unnerving to visit the dentist and endure the pokings and proddings. However, that’s no reason to keep quiet about your apprehensions! Your dentist should be able to answer your questions and put your mind at ease. That’s why it’s important to speak up when you’re nervous or scared. Whether this is your first appointment or your fiftieth, you need to feel comfortable enough to speak up if something is bothering you. Don’t be shy about telling your dentist that you’re feeling anxious or uncomfortable. They will be able to help you find ways to make your appointment more relaxing and improve your overall experience.

Sometimes all it takes is for your dentist to step in and lend a hand to make you more comfortable and relaxed during your appointment. Even if you’re embarrassed that you’re afraid to get dental care, it can be helpful to have someone there who you trust who can encourage you and talk you through any anxiety you might feel. Having someone there that you know and trust can help take the edge off and help you communicate better with your dentist. Here are a few tips that will help ease dental fear.

Open up about your dental fear

If you’re feeling anxious about an upcoming procedure, talk to your dentist about the options that might help you feel more relaxed. If you’ve avoided previous appointments because you felt too uneasy, consider talking to your dentist about the different options available to make the visit more enjoyable for you. Also, be sure to let your dentist know if you’re feeling particularly stressed or upset after they leave so that they know what’s going on and can check in with you later to make sure you’re OK.

When you’re getting dental care done, it’s important to be as relaxed as possible so that you can get the most out of your treatment. Follow these tips to better prepare for your next dental appointment.

Agree on a signal

If you or your child are feeling anxious during a procedure, you can agree on a signal with the dental team to show that you need a break. This can be a hand gesture, a certain word, or a tap on your knee. Be sure to discuss this signal with your dental team beforehand, so everyone knows what to expect and what to do when you need to take a break. 

Bring distractions

When you visit the dentist’s office, bring along a book, magazine, or music player to help distract you from what’s going on around you. You can also bring headphones if that’s more convenient for you. The goal is to keep your mind off of what’s happening with your mouth and body so that you remain as calm as possible.

Consider sedation dentistry

Sedation is often recommended when a patient has severe dental anxiety or difficulty getting numb. Oral sedatives can be given at the dental office before treatment, so the patient feels relaxed the entire time. Deep sedation is a type of sedation that may require an IV and medications to help relax you. Another option to consider is nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas. Nitrous oxide helps patients feel more at ease and is usually used during a cleaning appointment or a filling. However, some dentists may also use nitrous oxide during more in-depth treatments, like root canals.

If you wish to learn more, make an appointment with our dental experts. Visit us at Steven H. Brenman DMD, 1311 Bay St, Staten Island NY 10305. Call us to book an appointment at 718-650-2199.