Dental Phobia Is Real

If dental appointments make you nervous, then you aren’t alone. Unfortunately, because regular dental checkups are essential to your overall oral care, skipping check ups can exacerbate dental problems. Here are a few tips for overcoming dental fear, so that you can get the dental care that you need:

Tips for Overcoming Dental Fear

• Establish a Hand Signal to Stop Treatment: It isn’t always easy to communicate with your dentist when his or her hands are in your mouth, which is why establishing a hand signal is such a good idea. Before your appointment begins, agree on a hand signal with your dentist that will tell your doctor that you need a break. For example, you could hold up your index finger to show that you need a break.
• Read More About Your Procedures: Sometimes, people are simply afraid of the unknown. If you are nervous about undergoing a procedure that you are unfamiliar with, take a few minutes to research the topic. Reading about root canals or crown placements might not seem like a fun topic to research, but when you know what is happening, you might not be as likely to stress.
• Ask for Laughing Gas: If your dentist offers Nitrous oxide, also called laughing gas, consider making it a regular part of your dental visits. This safe, breathable gas relaxes patients, so that you can kick back and stay calm.
• Bring Distractions: Consider bringing along a few distractions, such as a smartphone or a friend. Instead of listening to drills and suction tools, you might be able to relax and enjoy your favorite music or podcast. Friends or family members can talk with you or hold your hand, which can help to soothe your nerves.

Here at Clark Family Dental, our goal is to make each and every one of our patients as comfortable as possible. If you have dental appointment anxiety, please let us know. We will do everything in our power to make your visit relaxing.