Are you looking for Ways to Overcome Dental Anxiety?
Dental check-ups are essential to avoid tooth loss and prevent decay. However, many people often forgo a regular examination due to an intense fear of seeing a dentist.
You will, however, be pleased to know that you are not alone, as many people feel anxious about visiting a dentist, even if they have had good experiences.
Ways to Overcome Dental Anxiety
If you want to improve the health of your teeth and gums, ensure you read the following five ways to overcome dental anxiety.
-
Identify the Cause of Your Fear
Many people fear the dentist for different reasons. Some might be afraid of needles, while others might have endured a traumatic experience in the past.
It is therefore important to identify your fears so that you can find the best solution for your needs.
For example, if you’re afraid of needles or sedation, talk to a dentist about your fears, who will help to alleviate your concerns.
If you were the victim of dental negligence, such as an incorrect tooth extraction or unnecessary pain, you should do your homework to find the best possible dentist for your future treatment.
You should also visit www.the-medical-negligence-experts.co.uk to make a claim, so you will receive both closure and financial justice.
-
Ask a Dentist to Explain a Procedure
Every dentist understands that some patients will be suffering from dental anxiety, which is why they are more than happy to take the time to explain a procedure thoroughly.
If you know exactly what to expect during and after treatment, it could provide you with emotional relief to embark on a procedure instead of ignoring the problem.
-
Consider Sedation
If you are afraid of a needle or a drill, it might be stopping you from booking a dental appointment.
However, you always have the option of sedation, if you feel you really need it.
Talk to your dentist about making a referral to an NHS sedation clinic to restore your teeth.
-
Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Break
Many people dread the dentist, as they might fear a loss of control when sitting in the chair.
If you’re worried you’ll experience feelings of claustrophobia, talk to a dentist at the start of an appointment about how you’re feeling.
They’ll more than likely tell you to raise your hand when you need to take a break, so you can calm yourself down and feel more in control of the situation.
Once you’re ready, they can continue reviewing your teeth or undertaking a dental procedure.
-
Discuss Payment Options
Your biggest fear about attending the dentist could be the cost incurred. However, booking regular dental cleanings and check-ups could help to avoid expensive dental treatments in the future.
If you do, however, require a crown or a filling, there are numerous payment options available in the UK to fund essential dental treatment, such as:
- NHS only dental cover
- NHS & private dental insurance
- A payment plan with your dentist
If you ignore a check-up or complaint, expect a bigger bill as your dental health starts to decline.
I do hope you have found this post on 5 Ways to Overcome Dental Anxiety to be useful
feature post
I’ve been lucky in that the dentist never made me very anxious… Unless it’d been a while since I’d gotten a cleaning. Then I’d dread the lecture.
But my ex-husband was pretty antsy when it came to the dentist — too many painful experiences in the past — so we had to take the sedation route whenever procedures were involved.
Author
I have to say I really am NOT a fan!