Don’t Fear The Dentist

If your teeth hurt when someone just utters the word “dentist,” it is probably time you got over your fears. Many people are scared of even going for a regular checkup or cleaning as they don’t want to discover cavities, disease, or other problems that can lead to painful procedures. While you may never love going to a dental professional, there are many ways you can help ease your fears.

Find a trustworthy dentist

You will feel infinitely more at ease in the chair if you have a dental professional whom you feel confident in and trust. A professional will take his time, explain procedures to you without leaving out anything important or dwelling on the less than pleasant bits, and will make sure you are comfortable. Once you find one that you feel is qualified and has good communication skills, don’t be afraid to be honest about your concerns or fears. A good dentist can help you get over the panic and will likely be more accommodating and sensitive to your needs.

Get Regular Checkups

You won’t have to fear dental visits if you ensure that your teeth are in well taken care for and in top condition year around. It is recommended to have a teeth cleaning and dental checkup twice a year or at the first signs of a problem or something unusual. By visiting early and often, you’ll help prevent small issues from snowballing into painful procedures. Maintenance is the key to keeping your teeth healthy as well as for keeping you out of the dentist’s chair for longer than necessary.

Relax

Have to have a filling or a root canal? No, it won’t be pleasant, but the more you focus on the pain and the stress of the situation the worse it will get. Try to direct your attention elsewhere by focusing on music being played or thinking of pleasant plans you will be making in the near future. The more you can ease the tension of your visit, the less pain you are likely to feel. If you will be recovering from a procedure for a while, you may want to prepare ahead of time by buying some books or renting movies to help you keep your mind off any pain. Keep busy and you will feel much better.

Don’t Predict

Most people fear the unknown, which is why a trip to the dentist may be especially frightening. Even with no cause for concern, people who fear the drill suddenly start imagining gruesome procedures and hours being strapped down to a torture chair. Rather than attempting to predict the future, don’t assume anything. If you go in with little to no expectations of the outcome, you will be much less disappointed and anxious by the end of your visit.

Listen

Don’t fight your dentist, but rather work with him. If he makes suggestions or gives you advice regarding your oral health, it would be wise to listen. If he tells you to stop brushing your teeth a certain way or to start flossing regularly, do it. They are the experts and are trying to help even though it may not always seem that way.