Anxiety-Busting Tips
We don’t like to admit it. Frankly, we don’t even like to talk about it. But, the truth is that many people don’t look forward to a visit with the dentist. For some patients a smile and reassurance are not quite enough. We offer these tips which, we hope, will help to relieve your anxiety about visiting the dentist.
- Share your feelings with your dentist, dental assistant and hygienist. It helps them to know if you are anxious or ill-at-ease. They can tailor our approach and treatment to your needs. An analgesic such as nitrous oxide (“laughing gas”)** may be just the thing for you. Sometimes even just talking about your fears may help you to relax.
- When making your dental appointment, select a time when you are not rushed, physically strained or troubled by other concerns. Early morning appointments may help you to feel unrushed and unhurried or it may be easier for you to relax if you aren’t worrying about returning to work or relieving the baby sitter.
- When you see your dentist regularly, your dental visits will rarely involve more than a professional cleaning, examination/consultation and x-ray. Use these visits to get to know the dentists and his/her staff. Dental employees are hired based not only on their professional expertise but also on their “people skills.” Receiving treatment in a warm, congenial atmosphere and developing a trusting relationship with your dental professionals will help to make you more comfortable.
Keep in mind too that it is always important to share your anxiety with your dentist and the dental staff. What they know about, they can try to help you with.