Dental phobia, also known as odontophobia, is an extreme or irrational fear of the dentist. Dental phobia can stem from a bad experience as a child or even from seeing someone else have a bad experience. If you are someone with dental phobia, read on to learn a few tips that can benefit you.
Discuss your dental fears
Talk to your dentist about your fears and concerns. This way, you can work together to come up with a solution that is more comfortable for you. Some dentists offer laughing gas or oral sedatives to help you feel more at ease during the procedure. During your visit, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist any questions you might have about the treatment. You can also discuss a signal that you can use if you need a break at any point during the procedure. Your dentist should be willing to accommodate your needs as much as possible.
Agree on a signal
Before any procedure begins, make sure you and your dental care provider agree on a signal to let each other know that you need a break or to stop the procedure. This can help eliminate the fear of being unable to communicate during the treatment.
Take a friend or relative with you
If going to a dentist creates a lot of anxiety for you, then consider having someone accompany you during the appointment. Your companion can be your source of support and can distract you from the procedure by engaging you in other activities. A simple chat can help you to relax and calm your nerves. Besides, your companion can also take care of any other errands that you might have scheduled for the day. It will also help you in overcoming the embarrassment of walking into a dental office alone.
You can also ask your family member or friend to stay after the appointment to help you recover. Having them around will make it easier for you to calm down and overcome any post-appointment discomfort.
Ask for sedation dentistry
If your anxiety cannot be managed by simple breathing and relaxation techniques, you should ask your dentist if sedation dentistry is right for you. Sedation helps you relax by affecting your brain’s activity and works quickly so you can get the dental care you need.
Click here for more information on sedation dentistry.
To find out about the dental services offered at Zane Dental, call (763) 561-1200 or schedule an online consultation. You can also visit Dentist in Brooklyn Park, MN, at 7340 Zane Ave N, Brooklyn Park, MN 55443.