Dental fear can affect anyone, regardless of their age. Dental anxiety can stem from a variety of reasons, including a bad childhood experience, a previous traumatic dental procedure, or a fear of needles or pain. If you've been putting off going to the dentist because of dental phobia, you're not alone. Many patients feel nervous or anxious about going to the dentist.
Speak Up About Your Fears
Although your dentist is trained to handle any dental emergencies that may arise, severe anxiety may hinder your ability to receive proper dental care. This is why it is important, to be honest about your fear of the dentist and speak up regarding ways you can make your appointment less stressful. Try to schedule your appointments during times of the day when you are most calm. If you become anxious or uncomfortable during treatment, let your dental team know so he or she can make adjustments to make you more comfortable. Many dentists offer patients who struggle with extreme levels of dental fear the option of receiving dental sedation through the use of oral sedatives. Talk to your dentist about the different options of sedation he or she offers to help put you at ease during your next visit.
Agree On A Signal
It is helpful to have a predetermined signal that you will use when you need a break due to heightened anxiety or discomfort. This can mean tapping on the table or simply raising a hand to let the dentist know that it's time to stop.
It can also be helpful for patients to voice their concerns about pain levels and other sensations they experience during a procedure. This allows a dentist to make accommodations and adjustments as needed.
Take A Trusted Person With You
The presence of another person can ease a patient's fears, so bringing someone you trust is usually a good idea.
If somebody is accompanying you for treatment, make sure they understand what will happen ahead of time and relay that information back to you once you are in the dentist's chair. That way, you can explain what is happening via your signals. It also gives the person the opportunity to confirm that their knowledge matches the dentist's word. If they have any questions, they can ask away.
Bring Distractions
For people who get anxiety or fear at dentist visits, bringing a distraction can be useful. This kind of distraction can take many forms. It can be as simple as a favorite stuffed animal that can give a person something to hold during procedures like fillings and crowns or a tab and headset to listen to your favorite music. Some dental offices have TVs in the patient rooms as well. All of these things can help you feel at ease while you are in the dental chair.
Consider Sedation Dentistry
If the thought of sitting in the dentist's chair makes you anxious or fearful, then sedation dentistry might be a great option for you. At our dental practice, we offer two types of sedation dentistry – oral sedation and nitrous oxide inhalation sedation. With both options, you won't feel any pain or discomfort during your appointment. You will still be conscious, but you will not be bothered by what's going on around you. You can use this as an opportunity to catch up on some reading or work on your computer or even take a nap if you'd like.
Oral sedation is as simple as taking a pill before your appointment. This medication will make you feel very drowsy, so you'll need someone to bring you to our office and help you home after your visit. You might experience grogginess, but you will likely be awake enough to drive yourself and get home safely. You will need a friend or family member to help you care for yourself and your children for at least the remainder of the day after your procedure.
Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, works quickly to make you more comfortable and relaxed during your treatment. You won't feel any pain, and you will be able to communicate with us as needed throughout your visit. After it's done, the gas will wear off quickly, and you can return to your normal activities. You'll need to have someone drive you to and from your appointment since you will be feeling groggy for a few hours after treatment.
Both options are safe and effective at allowing you to get the dental care you need without fear. Our team can discuss these options with you in more detail and help you decide which is right for you and your needs.
To learn more oral care tips from the experts, call Freeman Dental at (270) 444-6080 [Puducah office] or (270) 247-1966 [Mayfield office]. You can also visit our dental offices located at 4616 Village Square Dr, Paducah, KY, 42001, and 312 Wyatt Drive, Mayfield, KY, 42066.
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