Tips for Anxious Dental Patients
Dental anxiety is common and ranges from those who simply feel a little nervous about visiting the dentist, to others who are so fearful they cannot bring themselves to keep regular appointments for teeth cleanings. If you’re worried or anxious about visiting the dentist, there are ways to combat your fear so you can keep your smile healthy.
Share your Concerns
It’s difficult to battle fears about dental care if they go undiscussed. Talk to your dentist about what makes you feel uncomfortable or worried, whether it’s the fear of the unknown, certain sounds or smells, or a sensitive gag reflex. Sharing what triggers your fears allows your dentist to be mindful and considerate, creating more comfortable dental appointments. Drs. Okamoto work together with patients to thoroughly explain treatment plans so there’s no unexpected steps in your treatment. We can also recommend headphones and other actions that help to drown out sounds and sights that can make you feel anxious.
Ask to Take Breaks
Even with productive coping methods like what’s described above, it can be difficult for some patients to avoid feelings of anxiousness during an entire appointment. Communication becomes important here as well. Set up a signal with your dentist that indicates you’d like to take a quick break before your treatment resumes. Helping to stay relaxed by taking a break when you need to keeps the feeling in the entire treatment room more comfortable for everyone. Communicate the need for a break so both you and your dentist can confidently move forward with treatment.
Concentrate on Breathing
Mindful, focused breathing techniques are proven to help minimize feelings of anxiety. Some patients are so worried and focused on what their dentist is doing that they forget to breathe. This can make some people gag and can heighten the sense of worry that fearful patients experience. If you’re feeling anxious while in the dental chair, close your eyes and concentrate on your breathing; this goes a long way in calming down the physical anxiety response.
Split up Longer Appointments, if Possible
If you’re scheduled for a lengthier procedure to correct damage caused by years of avoiding the dentist, ask how your treatment plan can be segmented into different visits to help curb the anxiety of more complex procedures. While some patients prefer to have all treatment completed at once, others feel better knowing that their visits will be shorter and involve less work.
Ask Drs. Okamoto about Gentle Dentistry
We support caring dental services for anxious patients. If you have questions about what we can do to help relieve your dental anxiety, contact our office today to speak to a friendly member of our team