Dealing With Dental Anxiety? 4 Tips To Help You Make It Through Your Appointment

If you suffer from dental anxiety, going to the dentist can be a real struggle. Dental anxiety can cause uncontrollable crying, fear, and even nausea. When you suffer from dental anxiety, you may postpone routine dental care, which can lead to severe problems with your teeth. Once your teeth become infected or decayed, the treatment becomes even more invasive, which can exacerbate the anxiety. That's why it's so important that you overcome the anxiety so you can receive the dental care you need to keep your gums and teeth healthy. Here are four tips you can use to get your dental anxiety under control.

Choose the Right Dentist

Dental anxiety requires the right type of care. That's why it's so important that you choose the right dentist. You need one that you can communicate openly with. Open communication will allow you to talk about your anxiety so that you can form a trusting dentist/patient relationship. You also need a dentist that practices pain-free dentistry. Often the pain and discomfort associated with dental care are what brings on the anxiety. A pain-free dentist will help you relax and overcome the anxiety.

Ask About Anxiety Medication

If you suffer from debilitating dental anxiety, talk to your dentist about anxiety medication. There are a variety of medications available to help you cope with anxiety during dental procedures. You might be able to take these medications prior to arriving for your appointment. Once you arrive, you'll feel relaxed and calm, allowing you to sit through your appointment without anxiety. In fact, anxiety medication may allow you to sleep through your dental treatment.

Choose the Right Appointment Time

When you suffer from dental anxiety, choosing the right appointment time is crucial. You don't want to choose a time when the office is filled with other patients. The noise in the waiting room will make it difficult for you to relax prior to your appointment time. Not only that, but the sounds of other patients struggling through their own anxiety may cause you additional stress and anxiety. Ask your dentist to schedule your appointment for a time when the office is quiet, such as during the first or last appointment of the day.

Wait Outside for Your Appointment

If sitting inside a dental office gives you severe anxiety issues, wait outside for your appointment time. When you arrive, go into the office to sign in and then let them know that you'll be waiting outside. Remaining outside will allow you to enjoy the fresh air and relax while you wait for your scheduled appointment.