How to Not be Afraid of the Dentist

Going to the dentist should not be the same terrifying experience as going to a slasher movie. If your gripping the arm rest and screaming in terror and you are not in a movie theater watching a hockey mask killer attack co-eds you may need to think about getting some relaxation techniques in place in addition to letting your dentist know you are a fearful patient who will need extra work.

Most dentists expect some anxiety and fear from patients and have outgoing and calm mannerism to help put patients at ease. If the dentist knows you have strong fears he or she can work with you by giving you nitride oxide or laughing gas which can help relax your body and mind to make the process less terrifying.

It may also be a good idea to find a dentist who specializes in cowards. These dentists usually have their patient chairs set up with headphones to listen to music or a TV on the ceiling to watch. Being less aware and distracted from what is going on in and around your mouth will help you be less afraid and less tense.

Another good way to help relax is to bring a dentist buddy with you. Although most dentist areas are small they can usually accommodate a guest to sit in the room with you to give that mental boost when you are feeling your most vulnerable. Having your best friend, sister or even your mom in the room can have calming effect because you feel someone is watching out for you when you are in a vulnerable position in the dentist chair.

Sometimes it helps to know what is going to happen during a visit. Have the dentist explain what work is needed and get as much detail of how he or she plans to proceed with doing the job as you are comfortable knowing. Some people just need to know the dentist is filling a cavity located here and will be giving you a shot here to feel confident in their dental care plan. Other patients find they can relax more if they know the dentist will be using a rubber dam or will be giving multiple shots to numb a larger area. Most dentists will explain the work to you and ask if you have any concerns or questions before they begin doing anything.
Find what works for you but remember a dentist is a trained professional whose job is to help you stop being in dental pain and at the end of the visit your mouth will feel better and so will you. So focus on the big picture and take care of your mouth. In the end you will find that the more positive you are the less fearful your visits be.