Dental anxiety is a serious problem. After all, if you’re afraid to go to the dentist, you can’t take care of your teeth and gums very well. Then, you end up staying away from your dentist’s office until you’re in too much pain to ignore it. Instead of preventing dental problems, your dentist can only treat the ones you already have. Fortunately, your dentist can help you. Here are four ways they can ease your anxiety and get you back on the right path to good dental health.
Creating a Soothing Environment Can Help Combat Dental Anxiety
Your dentist starts by creating a tranquil environment in their office. This includes soothing sounds, aromas, and even the art they put on their walls. They can talk in a quiet but audible voice to help you feel reassured that everything is okay.
Communicating with You Can Help Combat Dental Anxiety
When your dentist communicates with you throughout your visit, you feel more in control of the situation. They talk to you during the first visit, and as they do, they learn about any dental anxiety issues you have. During a visit, they can follow the “tell-show-do” method, so you don’t have to worry about surprises.
Teaching You Calming Techniques Can Help Combat Dental Anxiety
Your dentist can teach you a variety of relaxation techniques to help you prepare for and cope with dental procedures. These include deep breathing, guided imagery, progressive muscle relaxation, and more.
Computer-Assisted Relaxation Learning Can Help Combat Dental Anxiety
Computer-assisted relaxation learning is a technique designed to help dental patients relax during injections. The method consists of watching videos in which a fearful patient learns relaxation techniques and then goes through the process of getting an injection.
These are only a few of the ways your dentist can help you combat dental anxiety and get the dental care and treatments you need.
