Fear of the dental chair is real–and for some people, it’s a debilitating response preventing proper dental care and maintenance from happening. Whether it’s a traumatic experience etched in the conscious or a preconceived notion of what happens at the dentist’s office, the anxiety that comes with this profound emotion is one that can lead to serious neglect of the teeth and gums.
In fact, millions of Americans skip the dentist every year as a byproduct of fear. But there is good news giving us all hope. There are many dentists who are properly trained to provide high-quality dental care warranting zero apprehension. We can only hope that’s reason enough, but the truth is this. Fear runs deep.
Some patients have cited lack of control as a culprit to their uneasiness toward sitting in a dental chair and having the mouth examined. Yet, selecting a dentist who works in a non-threatening and welcoming environmental with a caring team is a great way to combat these feelings.
For others, the fear of pain for more extensive dental procedures, like root canals, is a trigger. But in actuality, most procedures are meant to do the opposite–to remove pain caused by decay and disease. So, it’s a matter of perspective that really counts.
If you or someone you know struggles with dental anxiety, here are a few easy action steps to help alleviate those unhelpful emotions:
Bring a Buddy to Combat Dental Fear
Studies show that trusted companions are great sources of happiness. If you have a friend or relative who would help to keep your mind in an optimistic frame, then have them by your side–at least for the first visit as you get better acquainted with your new dentist.
Initiate Relaxation
Try breathing techniques, when appropriate, to ease your mind, heart rate, and slow down your awareness of the space. This is a great trick to use even beyond the dentists’ office as you manage the stress of day-to-day activities.
Ask lots of questions!
When it comes to your health, no question is a dumb one. So ask away! In fact, asking questions about the procedure, the anesthetics, and treatment plan can help you create in your mind a clear path to completion. Hopefully, this inspires an easygoing experience rooted in confidence and trust.
If all else fails, consider that perhaps the fear of dental work runs deeper than it appears. Seeing a licensed psychologist might be a great idea to help dissect the fear and better understand what mental health areas might need attention.
Overall, a confident approached to dental care is an empowering act of self care that we all deserve whole heartedly.