Have you had a painful dental experience that’s left you feeling nervous about going back to the dentist? Does the sound of dental tools feel like nails on a chalkboard to you? Do you find yourself putting off dental work because of fear or anxiety? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may suffer from dental anxiety. While this is a common issue shared amongst many adults around the world, you don’t have to let dental anxiety impact your oral health. Here are five tips to help you beat dental anxiety and overcome your fears of going to the dentist. 

The first step in overcoming your fear of the dentist is to identify what exactly it is that makes you fearful or anxious. Once you know this, you can examine where this fear and anxiety comes from. Consider dental procedures that occurred in the past that have left a negative impression on you. What happened in these circumstances that contributed to your fear? Was the procedure painful? Did the dentist provide poor care or seem indifferent to your discomfort? Once you’re able to identify what has contributed to your fear of the dentist, you can begin taking steps to address it.

Take the time to find a dentist that’s compassionate, understanding and willing to work with you on overcoming your fear of dental procedures. Make the dentist aware of the factors driving your fear, including any past negative experiences you’ve had. Take a look at their website as well. https://www.qualitydentalteam.com/ shows what you should look for, including a description of credentials and qualifications and the types of services that are offered. By knowing what’s caused you discomfort and pain in the past, your dentist can navigate around these and provide a better experience for you.

When going to the dentist, take steps to minimise any anxiety triggers. If the noise of the drill causes you to get tense and anxious, bring along your phone and some headphones to listen to while your dentist works. If fear of the cost of the procedure is part of your anxiety, visit with the dentist or office staff in advance to understand the costs and what may or may not be covered by your health insurance. 

Going to the dentist doesn’t have to be a painful or stressful experience thanks to the options available for sleep dentistry in Bundoora. Discuss the different sedation options your dentist offersfor anxious patients. Your dentist may be able to prescribe a pill that you take in advance of your procedure that helps to relax you. There’s also sleep dentistry in Bundoora that puts you to sleep for the procedure, which isideal if your fear of the dentist is extreme.

A great way to beat dental anxiety is to bring along a family member or friend to your procedure who can provide support. This person can help to comfort you and alleviate your fears and concerns, as well as act as a distraction if necessary.