How to Overcome Dental Fear — Tips from Canley Heights Dental Care
Dental fear is one of the most common reasons for people to avoid their dental check-ups.
The problem is, while you’re putting the dentist off, you’re not avoiding them altogether. If you have dental fear, you’re less likely to visit the dentist regularly, which puts you at a higher risk of dental disease.
Once you don’t visit for long enough, dental diseases like tooth decay, gum disease, and even crooked teeth in children can progress beyond the point of fixing.
That is, your dental fear has severe implications for your smile. People with dental fear often end up presenting when things are too late or after they’ve experienced extreme pain.
Most Common Dental Fears
People often think that dental fear is about being afraid of injections or the drill.
While you may have these fears, there are often other problems, including:
- being humiliated or told off
- not having control
- fear of not getting numb
- choking or gagging
- fear of allergic reactions
- fear of unnecessary treatment
- not being able to cope with the news of what needs to be done
and many more. Visit us at Canley Heights Dental Care for more information and possible solutions to overcome dental fear!
Tips for Overcoming Dental Fear Effectively
Whether you’re ready to face your fear or getting ready to gradually see the dentist, the following tips can help you stay relaxed during your appointment:
- See your dentist at a less busy time of day, such as the morning hours. There will be fewer people and fewer tools making noises that could trigger your anxiety.
- Bring noise-cancelling headphones or earbuds with music to help you relax.
- Ask a friend or loved one to come with you during your appointment.
- Practise deep breathing and other meditation techniques to calm your nerves.
If you need to take a break at any point during your dental visit, let your dentist know. You can establish a hand signal system with your dentist in advance so they know when to stop.
You can either continue with your visit when you’re ready or return another day when you feel better.
Overcome Dental Fear with your Trusted Canley Heights Dentist
It’s okay to be scared and to worry, which is part of the journey of coping with dental anxiety. Be kind to yourself.
When it comes to dental fear, your friendly Canley Heights dentist can help you deal with your concerns by giving the most suitable solution you ever need.
Your dental care partners at Canley Heights Dental Care aim to offer you a comfortable and pain-free dental experience whenever you visit us.
For more information, please call us on (02) 9199 9678 or book your appointment online.
We are located at 1/229 Canley Vale Road in Canley Heights.