How To Combat Dental Anxiety
Visiting the dentist can be a daunting experience for many people, and it’s not uncommon for patients to feel anxious or even fearful before and during dental procedures. However, dental anxiety should not prevent anyone from getting the care they need to maintain good oral health. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips to help you combat dental anxiety for the next time you visit us here at Oliver Park Dental.
COMMUNICATE WITH YOUR DENTIST
One of the most effective ways to ease dental anxiety is to communicate openly with your dentist. Let them know about your fears and concerns, and ask them to explain the procedure in detail. This will give you a better understanding of what to expect and can help alleviate some of your anxiety.
PRACTICE RELAXATION TECHNIQUES
Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or visualization can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm. Practice these techniques before your appointment, and use them during the procedure to help you stay relaxed. We also have a calming, live green wall that greets you in the waiting area to help you feel relaxed the minute you step through our doors.
USE DISTRACTION TECHNIQUES
Distraction techniques such as listening to music, watching a movie or TV show, listening to an audiobook, podcast or music can help take your mind off the procedure and reduce anxiety. Here at Oliver Park Dental, all of our treatment rooms have overhead TVs and headphones are provided for you to enjoy during your appointment.
CONSIDER SEDATION DENTISTRY
For patients with severe dental anxiety, sedation dentistry may be an option. This involves using medication to help you relax or sleep during the procedure. Conscious sedation will help you to feel comfortable and at ease, experience little to no pain, and have little to no memory of your procedure.
At Oliver Park Dental, we currently offer two levels of conscious sedation: nitrous oxide (laughing gas) and oral sedation. If you’re interested in learning more about conscious sedation, contact us to schedule a consultation.
TAKE CARE OF YOUR ORAL HEALTH
Taking care of your oral health through regular brushing, flossing, and consistent dental checkups can help prevent the need for more extensive dental procedures. This can reduce anxiety by reducing the likelihood of needing more invasive work in the future.