5 Ways to Cope with Your Dental Anxiety

Do you get nervous at just the thought of going to the dentist? This is much more common than you may think. Over 30 million Americans experience stress related to the dental office. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean that you need to avoid dental care. It is essential that you see a dentist regularly for checkups, as oral health and general health go hand in hand. Continue reading to learn some tips to combat dental anxiety so you can have a more comfortable visit.

Listen to Music

Some patients find that it is the sound of the dental instruments that trigger their anxiety. To reduce, ask your dentist if it is okay if you listen to music while they do their work. By listening to classical music, soothing nature sounds, or your favorite playlist, you can drown out the background noise and hopefully give yourself a more relaxing experience.

Focus on Breathing

This might seem obvious, but many people hold their breath when they are stressed. It may be beneficial for you to practice some breathing exercises to help you feel calmer. Slow, regular breathing is an effective way of reducing stress.

Ask for a Step-by-Step Rundown

When you don’t know what your dentist is doing, you may experience additional stress. When you come in for your appointment, ask your dentist if they can tell you exactly how they plan on treating you. They can give you a sequence of events so that you know exactly what to expect, reducing your anxiety levels.

Choose an Ideal Time of Day

If you have a busy schedule, adding a dental appointment to the mix isn’t going to help. Choose a day and time that best fits into your calendar. This way, you can have more time reserved and not feel rushed.

Talk to Your Dental Team

If your dental team isn’t away that you have dental anxiety, they won’t be able to do anything extra to make you feel more comfortable. Let them know if there is anything they can do to make your experience better. Sedation dentistry is sometimes an option as well. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to let them know. They will do everything in their power to make your visit stress-free.

While a dental visit may not be your idea of a good time, it doesn’t need to be a stressful experience. By using some of the steps above, you may find one that makes your appointment more comfortable.

About the Author

Dr. Franco Cordini is an experienced periodontist who has been working in the field for more than two decades. He earned his dental doctorate from Creighton University School of Dentistry and completed his specialty training from the University of Louisville. He offers sedation options for patients who have dental phobia. To learn more about sedation dentistry or to schedule an appointment at his office in Louisville, visit his website or call (502) 425-5010.