Dental anxiety is among the most common fears around the world with around a third of adults that don’t like dentists and 1 out of 10 having fears in going to the dentist. Dental anxiety is a problem that has to be faced head-on since oral hygiene is very important for our overall health. With these things in mind, it would be better to look for ways and strategies that one can use in overcoming dental anxiety.
Below are a few techniques that can help in dealing with dental anxiety:
Speak up
For people with anxiety problems, it would make a great deal if you can share your feelings. If you are anxious and worried, it would be better if you can vent out your concerns to someone. With the case of dental anxiety, your dentist and other dental health professionals are there to listen to your needs.
Express your anxiety to your Surrey dentist. In booking an appointment, you can tell the receptionist that you have anxiety every time you visit the dentist. As you arrive for your checkup, you can remind your dentist and the staff about your anxiety. Tell them about any bad experiences you have in the past and ask for recommendations on how you can cope with your anxiety.
Using relaxation techniques
Relaxation and distraction techniques are another good way of coping with dental anxiety. You can always listen to your favourite tunes during your appointment, or listen to your favourite radio station or have one of the dental staff to talk to you about anything. Various relaxation and distraction techniques work for various people so try to use what works for you.
Sedation
Although sedation isn’t the preferred option for people with dental anxiety, this way may prove to be one of the best solutions, which makes every visit to the dentist bearable.
There are a number of sedation types available. The most common is oral sedation, which is a small tablet to be taken one hour before a dental procedure. You will be conscious the whole time of the procedure, however, you will be more relaxed and calm.
If oral sedation will not work, there is the intravenous sedation. This is an injection administered at the back of the hand. You will be awake during the procedure, but you will be extremely relaxed and at times may not remember what happened after the procedure.