Joanna SAYS!
You are not alone! It is estimated that over 20% of dental clients suffer from severe dental anxiety. Fortunately, there are ways to overcome your fears. The first thing to do is to discuss it with your dental professional, because the longer you hold off on your appointments, the worse your oral health status can become. Be sure to ask any questions you may have about a procedure. The more you understand, the more comfortable you will feel.
Whether it is an appointment with your hygienist or dentist there are ways to reduce your feeling of sensitivity, anxiety or fear. Simply listening to music during a procedure can help calm nerves and take your mind off the situation. Another solution may be a sedative medication to help with reducing anxiety before your appointment begins or dental sedation with nitrous oxide (Laughing Gas) to help feel relaxed. Maintaining your homecare cleaning routine will also aid in decreasing sensitivity during appointments, specifically during your cleanings. I have heard many clients say since they have started taking better care of their teeth, their cleanings have been more comfortable and a positive experience. If you feel sensitive during a cleaning let your hygienist know and they can apply non-invasive numbing agents to reduce sensitivity.
These dental fears begin at young ages as well, and if you as parents are nervous of dental procedures, these fears can be passed to your children. The best thing to do is make dental appointments a positive and fun experience for your children.
Blog by Joanna - RDH
