4 Helpful Tips To Ease Dental Fear

Dental fear is a common problem. It ranges from mild anxiety to intense phobia. For some, it makes them avoid going to the dentist at all, and for others, it makes them postpone their appointments for years. Dental fear often stems from a bad experience with a dentist or dental procedure. If you are someone with dental fear, here are a few helpful tips for you.

Speak up about your fears

If you are afraid of the dentist or have had a bad experience in the past, it is important to tell your dentist. He or she can then work with you to alleviate those fears by exploring ways to reduce pain during procedures and other ways to make you feel more comfortable.

When discussing your issues with your dentist, it is important that you tell them exactly what is bothering you. This will allow you and your dentist to come up with a solution that will work for you. For example, if you are not fond of needles, let them know that you prefer avoiding shots when possible. If you prefer not to talk, let your dental office know. This will allow them to accommodate your needs.

Keep in mind that it is okay to ask for help whenever you need it. Always ask your dentist any questions you have about your procedure to help you feel more at ease. This will help reduce your stress and anxiety before your appointment. Ask your dentist for tips to manage your anxiety and stress as well. They will help prepare you for your visit so you feel more relaxed when coming to your appointment.

Agree on a signal

Discuss a signal with your dental office so that if you do need to take a break for any reason, they can let you know that it’s time to take a break and reschedule your appointment for another day. If you don’t have a signal worked out in advance, it can be uncomfortable to repeatedly ask them to stop during a procedure. A signal can be something as simple as raising your hand above your head. By agreeing on a specific signal ahead of time, you can prevent any misunderstandings in communication and make your visit more comfortable overall.

Take a trusted person with you

Having someone you trust to come with you to your appointment can be reassuring. There is often a lot to remember from an appointment, so having someone else with you can help to jog your memory later. Plus, if you get nervous in the waiting room or during treatment, they are right there with you to help calm you down and keep you relaxed. This can be especially helpful for children who may need help calming during dental treatments.

Bring distractions

By bringing your headphones or earbuds and your favorite music playlist to listen to, you will have the ability to block out the sounds of the office, helping to relax both your mind and your body. You can also bring a tablet loaded with movies and shows so that you can watch something during your appointment. In fact, many offices actually offer Wi-Fi to their patients so that they are able to stay connected while they wait.

If you’d like to learn more, call (925) 847-8790 to schedule an appointment. You can also directly visit John H. Ko, DDS, at 5720 Stoneridge Mall Rd #200, Pleasanton, CA 94588, for all your dental health concerns.