Sophie Okolo, MPH

It’s not uncommon for people to avoid the dentist due to their fear of needles or some other anxiety-inducing aspect of the appointment. But visiting the dentist is something you cannot ignore. Unfortunately, many people let fear get the better of them when it comes to visiting the dentist. However, there are some things you can do to ease your nerves and help overcome your fear of going to the dentist. If you’re someone who avoids seeing the dentist because of your fear, read on for some helpful tips that will assist you in getting over this phobia.

Ask your dentist about sedation options.

If you’re severely nervous about visiting the dentist, you should ask your dentist about different forms of sedation dentistry. Sedation options may vary depending on your dentist and the state where you live, but some standard options include: – Nitrous Oxide – Oral Sedation – IV Sedation – Anesthesia. Some dentists have special training in helping patients with severe anxiety and will be able to provide you with a sedative prescription so that you can relax during your appointment. If you’re visiting a new dentist and are nervous, it may be worth mentioning it and asking if they offer any of these services. Doing so may help ease your nerves and make your appointment more comfortable.

Find a dentist that you feel comfortable with

When visiting a new dentist, finding one you feel comfortable with is essential. If you’re visiting a dentist for the first time, be sure to ask about the experience so far and ask for any tips that may help ease your nerves. If you feel comfortable with the dentist, you’ll likely feel less anxious about your visit, making your next appointment much easier to handle. If you aren’t comfortable visiting the dentist, try scheduling a consultation beforehand to get used to the environment and meet with the dentist. If possible, ask a friend to come with you, as this can help reduce anxiety and make the process much easier.

Book appointments at quieter times of the day

Visiting the dentist at a busier time of day may make your visit more stressful and confusing, making you more anxious than usual. If you know that you’re more likely to be nervous about visiting the dentist, try to find quieter times of the day to book your appointments. This will help make your visit less stressful and allow you more one-on-one time with your dentist. 

Take someone with you to help you stay calm.

Sometimes, the anxieties and fears surrounding the dentist may be too much to deal with on your own. In these situations, it may be helpful to bring someone with you to your appointment to help you stay calm. If you have a friend or family member willing to come with you, try to bring them along. Doing so will help make the appointment less stressful and much more bearable.

Conclusion

If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, it’s important to remember that not all dentists are the same. If you see a dentist that you’re not comfortable with and feel is making you anxious, it’s essential to find a new dentist. Many dentists are willing to help their patients overcome their fear of the dentist and make the dentist appointment a more comfortable experience. If you’re nervous about visiting the dentist, read over these tips and try to implement them as best as possible. Doing so will help make your next appointment much easier to handle.