How to Manage Being Scared and Stressed at the Dentist
Nervous About Your Appointment at Prince Dental?
If you get anxious about going to the dentist, you’re not alone. Not by a long shot. Some studies show nearly three-fourths of American adults experience anxiety or outright fear when they even think about visiting the dentist. About 1 in 10 Americans experience enough fear to classify it as a phobia. It’s okay. We at Prince Dental know going to the dentist can seem scary!
But avoiding dental care as a result of dental anxiety can result in serious consequences for you and your teeth. Even if you’re nervous about going to the dentist, it’s extremely important to do what’s necessary to keep your mouth clean and healthy.
We want all of our Oceana area patients to be as comfortable as possible when they visit our office, so we do everything we can to give our guests a comfortable, calming environment. But there are a few things you can do on your own to help make your visit a little easier.
1. Have open communication with your dentist
If you’re feeling anxious about your upcoming appointment at Prince Dental, don’t hesitate to share your concerns with us. We believe that open communication is key to ensuring your comfort and satisfaction during your visit. By discussing your concerns, we can provide you with a clear understanding of what to expect and explore any accommodations that may reduce your stress. Remember, you’re not alone in feeling nervous about dental appointments, and we’re dedicated to supporting you every step of the way. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to assist you in any way we can.
2. Plan your appointment strategically
While life can be stressful, it’s important to minimize additional anxiety during your dental appointment. If you’re already feeling nervous, carrying the stress of a hectic day can increase your anxiety. Consider scheduling your appointment on a day when you have fewer obligations, allowing you to focus on your dental visit without distraction. Keeping the rest of the day clear after your appointment can also help ensure that your mind remains rested and refreshed for your procedure.
3. Take deep breaths
We all know that deep, relaxing breaths can help reduce our stress, but sometimes we need a reminder. If you’re feeling anxiety about your visit as you drive to our office or you begin feeling fear as you sit in our waiting room, begin by taking a deep breath in, holding it for a second, and slowly letting it out. That’s the most basic start toward relaxation, and it works for almost any situation. Continue relaxing breaths throughout your appointment.
Whatever the cause of your anxiety over a visit to our office for your cleaning or other dental procedure, we can manage it together. We want all our patients to be as comfortable as possible, and we want you to look at your visit to the dentist as a good thing. If you have any questions about a dental procedure, or if there is something we can do to ease your worry, contact us. We’ll work as a team to keep your next visit to the dentist stress-free!
