Tips for Anxious Dental Patients
Regular visits to the dentist are essential not only for proper oral health, but in order to take preventive measures to avoid more serious health issues. Concerns such as gum disease can lead to severe complications like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes. It is crucial to stay proactive about your dental visits, even if your smile appears clean and healthy.
Still, many patients fear dental appointments, and this prevents them from seeking the proper oral healthcare they need.
Why People Fear Going to The Dentist?
Why would individuals fear going to the dentist if it’s only going the benefit their health?
Most patients assume that there will be pain associated with the dental visit. Certain procedures, especially root canal therapy, have a negative reputation for being extremely painful, but in reality, it is the discomfort from a severe toothache before receiving treatment rather than the procedure itself that is painful. In fact, many patients have reported that after dental surgery the treatment was much less painful than anticipated.
A lot of people report having had a bad experience at the dentist as a child or young adult. Whether this was due to unexpected pain or a dentist lacking compassion, many of us at one point in our lives have had an unpleasant dental visit. However, don’t let this steer you away from seeking the professional dental care you need. Advances in dental technology have made significant strides in helping maximize your comfort while undergoing procedures.
Advice for Nervous Dental Patients
If you still find yourself apprehensive about visiting your dental professional, simply follow these helpful tips.
Find A Compassionate Dentist that Specializes in Nervous Patients- Just with many things in life, finding the right dental care professionals and staff can make all the difference. Try doing some research on dental practices in your area that cater to patients with dental phobias. Visiting a calming and compassionate dental team who you are comfortable with can help alleviate a lot of stress associated with dental fears.
Schedule an Initial Consultation- Many patients do not realize that a lot of dental practices offer comprehensive consultations prior to any treatments. By scheduling an advanced discussion, you can meet your dentist and their team to help ensure a comfortable experience. Most individuals find that meeting their dentist beforehand helps ease their fears quite significantly.
Don’t be Afraid to Communicate Openly with Your Dentist- It is vital for your dentist to know exactly how you’re feeling. Expressing your thoughts, fears, and expectations with them will let them know what they need to do to exhibit special caution when administering your treatment.
Bring Music to Listen to- Listening to calming music while undergoing treatment is highly favored among many anxious patients. It helps you to focus on relaxing rather than stressing over your procedure.
Have a Family Member, Spouse, or Friend Come with You- Having that trusted someone you’re comfortable with can help you feel more at ease while visiting your dentist.
Dr. Thomas Puzin is a compassionate dentist in Santa Clara that has years of experience treating anxious dental patients. We encourage you to contact our friendly and accommodating team for your comprehensive consultation!