Do you avoid going to the dentist even though you know something is wrong inside your mouth? Do you postpone the appointment with the dentist again and again even knowing that this is causing dental health problems? It is likely that you suffer from dentophobia or dental anxiety. The team at Battery Hill Dental would love to share a few tips with you to overcome this fear.Dentophobia or dental anxiety is the fear of pain and anxiety when we have to visit the dentist. Fear of the dentist has a very logical part because we visit the dentist when we have the need to cure decay, extract a tooth or some orthodontic treatment, and the discomfort that anything that is done to us within the mouth.It is essential to take care of your teeth not only for a beautiful smile, but also to prevent periodontal diseases, which increase the risk of suffering from diabetes or from a heart attack.To avoid this happening, you simply have to go regularly to the dentist. If your next dental appointment makes you nervous, try these recommendations from the team at Battery Hill Dental, your local Caloundra dentist, to control your dental anxiety:
- Trust helps reduce stress. Good communication between you and your expert Sunshine Coast dentist is one of the most important factors in overcoming dental anxiety. If you need a dentist, ask your friends and family to recommend one. Obtaining positive reviews about a dentist from a person you trust can help reduce your anxiety.
- Share your fears. Tell your dentist and office staff if you feel nervous or anxious. If you express your concerns, the dentist will be able to adapt the treatment to your needs.
- Focus on breathing regularly and slowly. People tend to hold their breath when nervous, which lowers oxygen levels and increases the sense of panic. As with some meditation techniques, focusing on slow and regular breathing helps reduce stress levels during dental procedures.
- Listen to some songs. If the sound of the dental drill disturbs you, bring your headphones and your favorite music with you.
- Observe what you eat and drink. Avoid drinking caffeine before a dentist consultation. Sorry, but it can make you panicky! Eat foods with high protein content that, unlike sweets, have a relaxing effect.
- Sign with your hands. Feel confident to do certain hand signals to communicate with your dentist. When you feel uncomfortable, tell your dentist to slow or stop the procedure.
- Choose a low stress schedule for the consultation. Schedule your visit to the dentist on a day where you have a bit of time free. It could be a consultation on a Saturday or in the early morning.
Looking for a local, caring Currimundi dentist? Visit Battery Hill Dental today - we understand your stress and work with you to make you feel better. Call 07 5358 0413.
