Dental anxiety: tips from your Virginia Beach dentist
Dental checkup appointments can be nerve-wracking experiences for many individuals. This anxiety results from several fears, which may include fear of needles, concerns over the gag reflex, embarrassment about the condition of one’s teeth, the sound of the drill, or fear of losing control during the procedure.
Such fears can hinder a person’s willingness to seek regular dental care, leading to delayed appointments and, in some cases, worsening dental conditions. Here are some tips from your Virginia Beach dentist to help you overcome dental anxiety.
Communicate with the dentist openly
The first trick to overcoming fear is to let it be known to your dentist. For instance, if you fear needles and drills, communicate with your dental provider before your appointment. This way, your dentist can tailor an approach that will make you more comfortable. The provider may create a consultation session where they will explain the procedure to you and reassure you that you have nothing to worry about. They could also use tools and techniques that suit you best. Open dialogue also helps you feel more in control, reducing the overall anxiety associated with the visit.
Use throat sprays
If your primary cause of fear is the gag reflex, you can deal with the issue by using throat spray to numb the throat. These sprays work by slightly numbing the back of the throat, making it easier to endure dental procedures that require the dentist to work in this area. Available over-the-counter, these sprays are easy to apply before your appointment. Talk to your dentist about using one, as they may also recommend additional strategies to help control the gag reflex during treatment.
Carry headphones with your favorite music
The sound of dental tools, especially the drill, is a frequent cause of dental anxiety. The high-pitched noise can trigger feelings of discomfort or panic, making it difficult to relax in the dentist’s chair. To counteract this, bring a pair of headphones and listen to your favorite music, podcast, or even a calming guided meditation. Music can help drown out the sounds of dental instruments and distract your mind from what’s happening. Additionally, rhythmic breathing or focusing on a soothing playlist can create a more relaxed atmosphere and give you something positive to focus on during the procedure. Many dentists are also happy to provide noise-canceling headphones if you ask.
Consider sedation
Pain is a significant cause of dental anxiety. But this fear is easily manageable with sedation. Depending on the severity of the pain or the type of procedure, dentists provide varying levels of sedation, ranging from minimal sedation to keep you awake and relaxed,
to general anesthesia to make you unconscious. Nitrous oxide is a commonly used form of mild sedation that helps patients feel calm and at ease throughout the procedure. Oral sedatives, usually taken about an hour before the appointment, can also help to reduce anxiety. Sedation ensures you remain relaxed and comfortable during treatment, so it’s a perfect solution for patients with extreme fear.
Incorporate mindfulness techniques
Some examples of mindfulness techniques you can easily practice before your appointment include progressive muscle relaxation, guided imagery, and deep breathing exercises. Deep breaths slow down your heart rate and reduce stress, creating a sense of calm. Progressive muscle relaxation for different muscle groups helps release physical tension. Finally, guided imagery encourages you to visualize a peaceful, calming scene, such as a beach or a forest, which can distract you from the dental procedure and alleviate anxiety.
Choose early morning appointments
If you have severe dental anxiety, consider scheduling an early morning appointment. Tackling your fears early in the day can prevent prolonged stress, as you won’t have hours to dwell on the upcoming visit. Morning appointments also tend to be quieter, with fewer patients in the office, creating a more peaceful and less overwhelming environment. When you’re one of the first patients of the day, your dentist and their team are likely to be fresh and fully focused, helping to create a more comfortable experience.
Bring a supportive friend or family member
Sometimes, you only need someone close to you to remind you that you are strong and everything will be all right. Bring a family or trusted friend to your appointment if you feel their presence will calm your nerves. Although they might not accompany you to the treatment room, depending on the facility policies, knowing they are around can make you feel confident. Also, knowing you have someone to drive you back home, significantly if you’ve undergone sedation, adds an extra layer of reassurance.
Final thoughts
Everyone dreams of the perfect smile, so don’t let dental anxiety delay your checkup appointments. Talk to your dentist about how they can make you feel more relaxed, keep yourself busy with music, incorporate deep breathing techniques, consider sedation, and be keen on the time. If possible, bring a supportive partner to your appointment. With these tips, your next trip to the dentist can be far more manageable, allowing you to maintain a healthy smile without fear.
