If you’re fearful or nervous about going to the dentist, you are not alone. Dental fear, which stems from the fear of losing control, is quite common. Over one-third of people in the Smokey Point and Marysville, WA areas may have some type of dental fear, with a smaller number having so much anxiety that dental visits get completely avoided. This can lead to severe issues with your gums and teeth, which can in turn lead to pain, tooth loss, and other health issues. But before you worry too much about these other issues, know that dental fear, like many others, can be overcome with some work and patience. Here at Seven Lakes Dental we understand this fear and strive to make your visit with us as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Know That Your Dentist Wants You to Be Comfortable. Everyone benefits when you, the patient, are comfortable during your appointment. You feel better, and your dentist will have an easier time and get through your procedure faster. Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re nervous about any part of the procedure, let your dentist know before you begin, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. He or she will understand, and then your dentist will work hard to ensure your comfort.
Know That Dentists Have Seen It All. Another source of dental fear that people don’t often think about is simple embarrassment over the state of one’s teeth. This most often happens when you don’t visit the dentist often for regular cleanings, fillings, and other much-needed procedures. Not visiting the dentist often stems from other dental related fears. Your dentist will be less affected by your teeth than you think, as they see several patients per day in varying states of dental health. Reminding yourself of this fact can help you overcome your fears.
If You Had a Bad Past Experience, Speak Up. It does happen where dental staff can be insensitive, or your last visit left you with complications, a high cost, or was painful. That’s why finding a dentist that you like and will keep you comfortable is important and will keep you coming to your appointments for years to come. Also, it’s good to remember that dental care today is more sophisticated and comfortable than dental care in the past.
You Can Take Breaks During Your Appointment. This technique works the best if being confined to a chair is what is making you nervous. This is actually a form of claustrophobia. Tell the staff ahead of time if you’d like to do this, and this will hand you a sense of control that will help immensely. (Remember, loss of control is the root of many fears.) Usually, this is an agreed-upon signal, such as raising a finger or two, that doesn’t involve speaking. After all, having instruments in your mouth even for a cleaning will make it difficult to speak up.
Don’t Be Afraid to Use Aids. Medications are available to help calm anxiety during your visit, and you can even bring a friend for support. You can ask your dentist about this before your appointment and knowing that you’ll have some extra support will ease your nerves before your visit.
Need Additional Help with Calming Your Fears? We at Seven Lakes Dental specialize in patient comfort and want to make your experience with us as relaxing as possible. Reach out to us today so we can help you achieve the best visit possible.