Are you one of the many people in Saratoga, California, who avoid going to the dentist? If so, you’re not alone. Dental anxiety is one of the most common phobias in the world. But there are things you can do to fight that fear and make your visits to the dentist less stressful. Check out these tips for dealing with Saratoga dental anxiety:
1. Look for a Dentist That Caters to Dental Phobics
If you’re one of the many people who fear the dentist, it’s crucial to find a dentist who understands your concerns and can cater to your needs. Some dentists specialize in treating patients with dental phobias, so be sure to ask your general dentist for a referral.
Such facilities will also make the environment soothing and mind-relaxing, which will help to ease your anxiety. They may also offer sedation dentistry, which can help you relax entirely during your appointment.
2. Talk to Your Dentist About Your Concerns
Before your appointment, take the time to talk to your dentist about your concerns. This will help him, or her understand what makes you anxious and how they can best help you feel comfortable during your visit. Some dentists may even offer sedation dentistry to help you relax.
Asking questions is a sign of intelligence and curiosity. It also shows that you are interested in the topic and want to learn more. Questions can help you better understand a subject, and they can also help you form your own opinions on things. Asking questions is a great way to learn, and it’s something that should be encouraged in both children and adults.
3. Bring Distractions With You
If you’re feeling anxious, it can help bring distractions to your appointment. This could include things like books, magazines, or headphones. It can also be helpful to get a friend or family member with you to provide support.
In the case of an emergency, it may be challenging to keep your attention on anything else. If you can distract yourself with a book or podcast, you might calm your nerves more, focusing on the present and not the past trauma.
4. Have Company With You After the Appointment
It’s not uncommon for people to experience a bit of anxiety after their appointment. If this is the case for you, it can be helpful to have someone with you who can provide support. You may also want to avoid going home right after your appointment and instead spend some time relaxing at a friend or family member’s house.
5. Learn About the Appropriate Sedation Options
Some dentists offer sedation dentistry as an option to help patients relax. This could include options like nitrous oxide, oral sedatives, or IV sedatives. It’s essential to learn about the different types of sedation and their effects before deciding.
Nitrous oxide, also known as “laughing gas,” is a mild sedative breathed in through the nose. It helps to relax the patient and can make the experience less stressful. Oral sedatives are taken in pill form and help to calm the nerves. IV sedatives are given through a vein and work quickly to relax the patient.
It’s no secret that going to the dentist can cause anxiety for many people. But with a few simple tips, you can make the experience less stressful and even enjoyable. Check out these practical tips for fighting dentist anxiety and put them into practice the next time you have an appointment.
