The fear of sitting in a dental chair is unfortunately common, and contrary to popular belief, it does not only affect children. Everything from the smells and noises associated with a dental office to the perception that procedures will cause pain are common sources of fear for people of all ages. However, getting regular dental care is important if you want to keep your teeth and gums as healthy as possible. These tips can help you to overcome your fear so that you can get the treatment you need.
Learn More About the Equipment and Technology Being Used
Regardless of whether you need dental cleanings or some other type of treatment, it may help you to relax at the dentist’s office when you understand what the treatment entails and how it will be completed. Specifically, learn more about common types of equipment and technology used for cleaning teeth, filling cavities, taking x-rays and more. You may even be able to see some of the tools and equipment being used when you watch YouTube videos or look at photos online.
Choose a Dental Office with a Relaxing Environment
According to Nutley Family Dentistry, a clinic that specializes in dental cleanings in Nutley, NJ, you want to go to a dentist that makes you feel comfortable. Some offices may be rather uptight and stuffy, and some may be too energetic or active for you to relax at. However, others may have soft lighting, ambient music and a low-pressure feel. You can learn more about different offices by reading consumer reviews online. The dental office’s website can also give you an indication about what your appointment experience may be like.
Read Dental Professionals’ Bios
Reading the online bios of dental professionals can set your mind at ease as well. By reading online bios, you can learn more about the dental team’s education, experience and special training. You may initially feel uneasy about letting someone work on your teeth, and this is particularly true if you have oral pain. However, when you know that the individuals caring for your teeth and gums are experts in the field, you may relax more easily because you have confidence in their abilities and training.
Meet the Team Ahead of time
In some dental offices, you can schedule a pre-appointment consultation. This is an appointment where you visit with the team and get to know more about the office and equipment they have. You can ask questions and get feedback, but you will not have to sit in the dental chair and endure an exam. This is a baby step toward getting the dental treatment you need. It can also help you to feel more comfortable taking the next step of scheduling a full dental exam with the team.
Choose a Team That Will Have Patience With You
It is always wise to read more about the dental team at each office you are thinking about visiting and to focus on finding a team that has patience and compassion. Some teams specifically cater to those who are intimidated or fearful about the dentist, and they have experience calming anxious minds. If you work with one of these teams that caters to helping individuals like you, you may have a more enjoyable and productive experience. You may also be more motivated to make follow-up visits as needed for all of your future dental care needs.
You may feel somewhat embarrassed by your fear of the dentist, but rest assured that you are not the only person with this issue. In fact, many people are so fearful or anxious about getting dental treatments that they have not been to the dentist in five or 10 years or longer. Getting dental care on a regular basis is important for superior oral health as well as for total body health, so you need to find a way to overcome your fear and anxiety. Follow these tips to find a great dental office to visit to get the care that you need.
