How to Conquer Your Fear of the Dentist
Dental anxiety is a very common problem. In fact, it is estimated that up to 40% of the Australian population experiences some level of dental anxiety. If you are one of those people, don’t worry – you are not alone! In this blog post, we will provide 10 tips to help you overcome your fear of the dentist and get the care that you need.
Tip #01: Talk to Your Dentist
The first step in overcoming dental anxiety is to talk to your dentist. Let them know that you are anxious and see if they can help you come up with a plan to make your visits more comfortable. They may be able to prescribe medication or offer other forms of treatment that can help ease your anxiety. Here at Queanbeyan Dental, we offer our patients sedation such as local anesthesia for certain treatments to help reduce discomfort, pain and your anxiety.
Tip #02: Take Deep Breaths
When you are feeling anxious, take a few deep breaths to help calm yourself down. This will help you focus and relax your body.
Tip #03: Bring along a Friend or Family Member
If possible, try to bring along a friend or family member when you go to the dentist. They can provide moral support and help keep you calm during your visit.
Tip #04: Distract Yourself with a Book or Tablet
If you are feeling anxious, try to distract yourself by reading a book or playing on your tablet. This will help take your mind off of the dental appointment and make the time fly by.
Tip #05: Visualize Yourself Having a Good Experience
Before your appointment, try to visualize yourself having a good experience at the dentist. Picture yourself feeling calm and relaxed during your visit. This can help set the tone for your appointment and help you feel more comfortable.
Tip #06: Take Your Time
If you are feeling anxious, take your time when getting ready for your appointment. This will help you feel more in control and less rushed.
Tip #07: Practice Relaxation Techniques
There are a number of relaxation techniques that can help ease dental anxiety. Some people find it helpful to practice yoga or meditation before their appointment. Others find that deep breathing exercises work well.
Tip #08: Bring a Comfort Object
If you are feeling anxious, try to bring along a comfort object to help you feel more at ease. This could be a stuffed animal, blanket, or your favourite book!
Tip #09: Make Sure You Are Well-Hydrated
If you are feeling anxious, make sure you are well-hydrated. This will help keep your body calm and relaxed.
Tip #010: Seek Professional Help
If you are struggling to overcome your dental anxiety, it may be helpful to seek professional help. There are a number of therapists who specialise in helping people deal with dental anxiety.
Get In Touch With Queanbeyan Dental
We hope these tips help you overcome your fear of the dentist and get the care that you need! If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to help! Queanbeyan Dental offers a range of services to help patients overcome their dental anxiety, including sedation dentistry. We would be happy to discuss your options with you and help you find the best solution for your needs.
