Around 10 million adults in the UK suffer from dental anxiety, according to the Oral Health Foundation. Furthermore, Dental Phobia, 53% of the UK are scared to visit dentists due to dental phobias. Additionally, 17% have such a fear of the dentist that they refuse to visit or get essential dental work done. Therefore, missing important regular check-ups and not getting necessary dental treatments when they need them the most.
If the thought of going to the dentist puts a knot in your stomach, you’re not alone. Many people experience dental anxiety and fear of the dentist. Both of which can make it difficult to go to the dentist. Fortunately, there are ways to manage and even overcome your dental anxiety so that you can get the care and treatment you need for your teeth and gums.
Speak To Your Dentist
The first step to overcoming a fear of the dentist is to talk to your dentist openly and honestly about your fears and concerns. Together, you can come up with a plan that works for both of you and ensures that you get the care you need without feeling overwhelmed or anxious.
Tips For Managing Dental Anxiety
A few other tips for managing and addressing your dental anxiety include:
- Bring a friend, family member, or significant other with you to your appointment for emotional support.
- Practice deep breathing and other relaxation techniques to calm yourself before and during your appointment.
- Wear headphones and listen to music during your procedure to help keep your mind focused.
- Speak to your dentist about sedation options, such as nitrous oxide gas, that can help you relax during the procedure.
- Ask your dentist to explain the procedure as they’re going through it.
- Request breaks during the procedure if needed.
- Reward yourself after the appointment.
No matter how much dental anxiety you experience, it is possible to overcome it with the right strategies. Talk to your dentist about your concerns and work together to create a plan that helps you feel comfortable and secure in the treatment chair. Be sure to use relaxation techniques and remember to reward yourself after the appointment. With the right strategies in place, you can finally get the dental care you need without feeling anxious or afraid.
Cheslyn Hay Dental Practice
Speak to Cheslyn Hay Dental Practice in Walsall about your fear and what can be done to make the experience more comfortable. Offering IV sedation dentistry that uses medication administered through a vein. This is to help patients relax during dental procedures.
Additionally, reframe the experience with positive thoughts and take things one step at a time. With these tips, you can make your dental visits a more manageable experience. Speak to a member of our team if you require any further information.
