How to Alleviate Anxiety at the Dental Office
Some people experience anxiety during dental care. This may lead them to procrastinate or forgo entirely their regular dental check- ups and maintenance.
Unfortunately, problems like decay and disease will develop if teeth are not well taken care of.
It’s important to conquer dental anxiety and receive the care you need to have good oral health. Below aresome tips to help you stay comfortable at the dentist’s office.
Focused Breathing
When feeling nervous or tense, we tend to take more shallow breaths. This decrease of oxygen only worsens anxiety. Take control of your breath and banish anxiety from your dental appointments.
First, simply pay attention to your breath. People with anxiety can often slip into labored breathing as their anxiety peaks. Once you’ve taken note of your breath at rest, begin counting. Breathe in for 4 seconds, and out for 8. Longer out-breathing induces a calming effect on the body. You can work up to this ratio if it isn’t possible at first.
Bring Music
Listening to music can be a calming distraction from uncomfortable situations. Bring headphones and ask your dentist if it’s alright to wear them as they work on you.
Create a playlist that relaxes you. It could be comprised of loud, distracting music that helps you ignore the dental work taking place. Perhaps meditation music would help you maintain focused breathing throughout your appointment.
Communicate with Your Dentist
Let your dentist and the rest of the staff know if you are tense or anxious. If you don’t express your concerns, there’s no other way for them to be aware. Notifying them will help form their treatment to be sensitive of your needs.
Much of dental anxiety, and anxiety in general, stems from the fear of the unknown. Simply not knowing what to expect can spark a flurry of internal what-if scenarios, and a disquieting emotional response. Prevent this by keeping an open dialogue with your dentist. It’s important to know exactly what each procedure entails, so you know exactly what to expect.
Having a personal relationship with your dentist is beneficial, as for many it is preferable than having a total stranger perform their dental work.
Compassionate Dentistry in Lakewood Ranch
It’s important to feel comfortable with your dental care. If you have more questions about alleviating anxiety at the dentist’s office, call our Lakewood Ranch Dental office. Dr. Scala and her team are dedicated to keeping their patients at ease. We look forward to hearing from you!