Implants

Dental fear or phobia is a type of anxiety disorder that prevents people from visiting the dentist out of fear. Dental phobia is one of the most common fears among people, and it may prevent people from seeking necessary treatment. If you are someone with dental phobia, here are a few tips to ease your anxiety.

Discuss your fears with your dentist

If you are experiencing anxiety about visiting a dentist, speak with them about it. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to overcome. Your dentist can recommend solutions such as conscious sedation or nitrous oxide to make your visit easier and less stressful.

Agree on a signal

Agree on a signal with your dentist that signifies that you need a break or more time to process the treatment. Signaling helps your dentist adjust the procedure accordingly. Some patients maintain hand signals, while others use nonverbal gestures like raising a finger or simply closing their eyes. Keep this in mind and discuss this during the consultation so that you’re both on the same page. This will go a long way in reassuring you and reducing anxiety levels.

Bring a friend/family member with you

Bringing a loved one or friend to your appointment is one of the best ways to make you feel at ease and more comfortable. A friend or family member who sits beside you during your procedure is also able to answer any questions that you might have about the treatment. They can also hold your hand if it makes you feel more comfortable during the treatment.

Bring a distraction with you

Bringing a distraction is the best way to keep your mind busy during a procedure. You can bring any music or audiobook to listen to during the appointment. Or you can bring a magazine to read. You can also bring your own headphones and listen to the distraction of your choice. This way, you keep your mind off of what’s being done in your mouth, allowing you to relax as much as possible.

If you’d rather distract yourself using your smartphone or tablet, download an app that allows you to play your favorite game right in the waiting room. This makes the time fly by faster! People have long forgotten how enjoyable it is to sit in a waiting room. Why not make the most of it?

To find out more about the dental services offered at Doubletake Dental, call (801) 225-1002 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit us at 163 N 400 W St A1, Orem, UT, 84057.