Regular visits to the dentist are essential because oral health says a lot about one’s overall wellness. The state of your teeth, tongue, and gums affects your general health. It also impacts the way you look, smile, and how you feel about yourself.
However, the fear of dentists is a problem that prevents many individuals from getting the care they require. These fears are common in children and adults. If you are one of these people who fears visiting a dentist, know that your situation is not uncommon.
Because of this fear, some people opt to endure a toothache’s pain to avoid the sight of a dentist’s tools. The good thing is that there are four steps you can do to overcome this distress.
Step 1: Understand Where the Fear Is Coming From
Some people have anxieties about dental visits. If you think you belong under this category, you need to find a dentist who will understand your situation and help you make your way through this discomfort. Trained dentists can make you feel at ease by accommodating your fears as they attend to your oral health. Consider looking for a dentist who will talk about your fear or anxiety. Try also to establish a stable relationship with your dentist to help you feel more comfortable.
Another practical reason behind some people’s fear is the service’s high cost. It is a real issue, especially for those with health insurance policies that do not cover dental procedures. To address this, try to look for a medical insurance plan that covers cosmetic dentistry procedures. These plans are widely available now, and many dentists already accept them.
Step 2: Deal With It in Small Steps
There is no other way to conquer your fear of the dental clinic than by facing it. Treat this step as therapy sessions that you need to complete. Familiarize yourself slowly to the new environment by scheduling frequent visits. You can start with a visit to pick up the right toothbrush and toothpaste, and then get an oral examination during the next session. After that, you can proceed to take a dental X-ray on your third visit, and so on.
These little steps will help you get used to the environment, to your dentist, and their tools. They soften any fear you have and provide you with comfort. Remember, though, that these are crucial steps that will require your dedication.
Step 3: Ask for Medications
Not all people will find steps one and two easy. Some experience extreme anxiety just thinking about the needles and tools that dentists might put in their mouths. If you find yourself in this situation, it is best to ask medical professionals for assistance.
Some may recommend medications to help you fight your anxiety. Others will use sedation medication during a procedure. These medications can help you reduce your fear by making the procedures painless.
Step 4: Make Yourself Feel Relaxed
If you have an appointment with a dentist and feel nervous, you can always ask a friend to accompany you. If that is not possible, maybe wearing headphones and listening to your preferred soothing music will do the trick. Telling your dentist to give you a break whenever you start to feel uncomfortable is always an option. Do not forget to listen to your needs and give them the attention they deserve.
Conclusion
Fear of the dentists is a challenge for dentists and individuals worldwide, but remember that it is a condition that can be managed. You can start by following the steps we mentioned above, seeking professional approaches, and getting social support. The most important thing is that you are now determined to change your current thinking.
Are you looking for a family dentist in Chattanooga that will provide you and your loved ones with high-quality dental care? At Shallowford Family Dental Group, we have highly-trained dentists who offer the utmost dental care in preventative, restorative, cosmetic, pediatric, and implant treatments. Contact us today at (423) 892-4477 to book an appointment.