Did you know that dental anxiety affects approximately 36% of the population? If you struggle with dental anxiety, you’re not alone. Plenty of people have the same problem.
You can’t let dental anxiety get in the way of your oral health, however. Getting over dental anxiety is crucial for anyone who wants to maintain a clean and healthy smile.
We’re here to offer some advice so you can access dental services without fear. Read on to learn more.
Talk To Your Dentist
If you’re struggling with dental , it’s helpful to talk to your dentist first. This might seem counterintuitive (after all, how can you visit your dentist if you’re afraid of them?), but it’s a great way to get peace of mind.
Talk to the dentist during a routine checkup where you know that no procedures are going to take place. Have them walk you through any potential procedures that you’ll need so you can understand them and prepare for them.
Many dentists offer sedation options for dental procedures. Some even allow sedation for dental cleanings for people who have a lot of dental anxiety.
More advanced procedures, like those that happen at a Georgia Facial & Oral Surgery center, will always include sedation, so you don’t have to worry about them.
Your dentist is used to having patients who struggle with dental . They can offer you advice.
Consider Counseling
If your dental anxiety is so severe that the idea of going to the dentist for a checkup is too overwhelming, consider seeing a counselor or therapist first.
It might seem silly to visit a therapist for dental anxiety, but many people seek mental health counseling for phobias. Dental fear is just another phobia, so you have nothing to feel embarrassed about.
A counselor can help you develop coping mechanisms and help you get rid of any irrational fears regarding the dentist.
Anxiety Medication: Yes or No?
You can take medication for dental anxiety if a doctor approves it. Some dentists will also offer anxiety medication during complex procedures.
Even if you don’t struggle with chronic, a doctor may prescribe you a small amount of anxiety medication that you can use exclusively for visits to the dentist.
Do Your Research
Sometimes the best defense against anxiety is information.
When you research dental procedures, you’ll discover that they’re not as scary as you might think they are. Complications during common dental procedures are rare.
You can also learn about how local anesthetic works and how the healing process goes for various procedures. This should make you feel better about going to the dentist, even if you need a procedure like a filling, a root canal, or an extraction.
You Can Overcome Your Dental Anxiety
Getting past dental anxiety isn’t always easy, but these tips should give you a great starting point. Remember: talk to your dentist, consider counseling, don’t shy away from medication, and do your research. With these things combined, you’ll be visiting the dentist with confidence in no time.
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