Coping with a Fear of Dentists

Dentists are health care providers for your pearly whites. You need these teeth doctors to help keep your smile as beautiful as can be and to ensure the good health of your mouth. What happens though when you find your knees buckling in fear at the thought of visiting the dentist?

If this describes you to a tee then you will be relieved to know that you are not alone. It is estimated that 80 percent of adults in the United States have a fear of dentists to varying degrees. Of these over one half admits that the fear is so debilitating that they do not seek out the dental care they require on a regular basis. By not going to see the dental practitioner you are neglecting your teeth and gums. Your oral health will suffer because of it and any problems you have will just keep getting worse.

If your anxiety levels soar at the thought of having your teeth looked at then there are things you can do to help alleviate them. To begin with tell the dentist and/or the receptionist that you have such a fear. This is a common fear and many dental offices may already have measures they can take to help their fearful patients.

Music can help to relax and soothe you during your appointment. Many dental offices have music playing in the exam rooms. Still others provide their patients with MP3 players to listen to while their mouths are being examined. Some offices also have televisions mounted on the ceiling or chairs to offer entertainment to their patients. If the office you go to has none of these things then bring your own with you. Most practitioners will have no problem at all with you listening to a portable music player during your check-up. If it helps to calm you and get through your appointment with ease then it is beneficial to everyone concerned.

Knowing what to expect and what is coming is half the battle. Ask questions of your health care before he or she starts to do anything in your mouth. For many people the unknown is the most frightening part of sitting in a dental practitioner’s chair. If the dentist is intent on what he or she is doing and does not have the time to answer your questions then you can ask the dental assistant for the information you need. This way you will know what is about to take place when you open up your mouth.

For some people the bright light that the tooth doctor uses to look into their mouth can be a little off-putting and can make them feel blinded. If the office you go to does not provide dark sunglasses then bring your own with you. This will help to make you feel more comfortable and it will also prevent your eyes from tearing up. It may seem like a small thing but it can count for a lot.

To cope with your dental fears you must be willing to talk about them and make them known. If dentists are not aware of how anxious you feel when you come in for an appointment then they will not be able to work with you to conquer it. If they are aware then they can do their part to help you.