Do you have anxiety? If so, where does it stem from? Many people experience severe fear when it comes to visiting their local dentist—which is really a sad case. Far too many adults avoid getting the dental care that they need because they have extreme anxiety from sitting in the dental chair for long periods of time or even worse—they fear dental pain. If this sounds familiar, you’re risking developing serious health concerns by not caring for your smile appropriately.
This is especially sad because there are so many ways to help you overcome your anxiety so that you can receive the dental care that your mouth needs. Learn about some helpful tips to calm anxiety from your local sedation dentist in Marlton.
We Don’t Doubt Dental Anxiety Exists, But We Have to Get Past It!
As trivial as it may sound, dental anxiety and fear is a real obstacle that many adults are afraid to hurdle over. In fact, anywhere between 9-20% of Americans avoid going to the dentist completely because of their nerves.
When you let a dental problem sit for weeks, months, or even years, it’s only going to get worse! Most dental problems are easily treated when they are caught early on. Plus, you shouldn’t be missing out on your regular preventive care appointments as they can help you avoid issues like cavities and gum disease altogether.
Coping Mechanisms for Dental Anxiety
If you have skipped these visits in the past, consider trying these methods to calm down before your next appointment.
Spread Out Your Care
If you need extensive dental work, don’t try to squeeze all of it into one visit. Your dentist is more than happy to develop a personalized treatment plan that will help you receive the dental care that you need gradually. These custom dental plans can make each appointment more manageable, less overwhelming, and can save you from experiencing discomfort.
Pick Your Perfect Dentist
If going to the dentist makes you anxious, choosing a dentist that understands your anxiety is key. They will do anything to make you feel comfortable from the amenities that the office offers to even exploring sedation options.
Think About Sedation Dentistry
Sedation dentistry is a great way to overcome severe dental anxiety during your dental visits. Nitrous oxide is a mild sedative that allows you to relax just enough to get the care you need. Ask your local dentist about it the next time you schedule your visit!
There are many ways to help calm yourself down before a dental appointment, but one thing to keep in mind is that your dentist is here to help—not hurt you! This should settle any lingering concerns you still have, but if not, don’t hesitate to give your local practice a call.
About Our Office
Dr. Putulla and Dr. Kazemi always want to make patients feel like their right at home when visiting our office. If there’s anything we can do to help you feel comfortable, just let us know!