Managing Dental Anxiety
Whether it's the sound of the drill, fear of pain, or bad memories from the past, dental anxiety is more common than you might think. According to the National Library of Medicine, about 36% of the population experiences dental anxiety, while 12% suffer from extreme dental fear. But avoiding the dentist due to fear can lead to bigger oral health problems down the road, when considering bi-annual dental cleanings are recommended by the American Dental Association for optimal oral health.
Today, we'll look at our best-kept secrets for getting over the fear of the dentist and how you can manage your dental anxiety to help you feel more at ease and much more comfortable at your next visit.
1. Speak Up About Your Fears
Communication is key. Let your dentist know about your anxiety before your visit. Many dental offices are experienced in working with nervous patients and can adjust their approach to help you feel more relaxed and at ease during your appointment. A good dentist will be happy to answer any questions you may have about your oral health and examination, and asking questions about what’s going on can help remove the mystery and fear from the visit. If your anxiety increases throughout the appointment, ask the dentist if they can stop or take a break. At MINT dentistry, our dentists are trained to be sensitive to dental anxiety and fear and will do their best to make you as comfortable as possible during your appointment.
2. Bring a Friend
The American Dental Association might recommend that you go to the dentist for cleanings twice a year, but you don't have to face your fear alone. If your office allows it, bring a friend or family member along. Simply knowing that someone you love is waiting for you in the lobby or sitting beside you in your dental chair can help you feel more at ease when getting your dental work done.
3. Distract Yourself with Music or a Show
Some high-end dental offices, like MINT dentistry, have TV screens and noise-canceling headphones in their operatories so patients can watch shows or movies as a distraction from their dental appointment. But even if your dentist doesn’t have the latest technology to offer, you can bring headphones and listen to calming music, a podcast, or even an audiobook to distract your mind.
4. Choose the Right Appointment Time
Pick a time of day when you’re least likely to feel rushed or stressed. Early morning appointments can help you avoid spending the day worrying about your visit. Also, don’t get to the office too early — you don’t want to spend any extra time in the waiting room to allow your mind to wander. Luxury dental offices like MINT dentistry will have comfortable seating, magazines to read, and even a snack or water to keep your mind occupied while you wait.
5. Choose the Right Dentist
Dental professionals understand that visiting the dentist can be uncomfortable for most and terrifying to others. When you call to schedule your first appointment with a new doctor, be honest about your concerns and ask what the office does to help alleviate anxiety. You may be surprised by the accommodations they provide. A good dental team will know how to put your anxieties at ease so you can get the high-quality oral care you need without the added stress.
MINT dentistry was created to take the fear out of dentistry from the front desk to the dental chair. Our offices are custom-designed to make patients feel at home in a living room setting versus a cold waiting room. We train our staff and doctors to be experts in reducing pain and anxiety, and we were the first in the industry to offer massaging dental chairs equipped with a pair of noise-cancelling headphones and a personal TV so patients can escape into their favorite show, podcast, or audiobook during every exam.
If it's been a while since your last appointment, consider starting with a non-invasive exam or cleaning to rebuild your confidence. Gradually working up to more complex procedures can make a big difference in your comfort level. With MINT dentistry, fear of the dentist is a thing of the past.
Book your next anxiety-free dental appointment with MINT dentistry today.