Having dental anxiety is a common feeling and nothing to be ashamed of, but it’s important that this anxiety doesn’t keep you from getting proper dental care. Nearly 20% of adults have experienced some sort of dental anxiety. To help you feel confident about going to the dentist, here are five things to think about to help you overcome dental anxiety.

Understand Where Your Anxiety Is Coming From

There are likely several things that could be causing your dental anxiety. You may be afraid of experiencing pain, have a negative memory from a previous dental visit, hesitant to be in a vulnerable position, or you may just be embarrassed of your oral health because you haven’t been to the dentist in a while. Finding the root cause of your dental anxiety is the best way to figure out how to address it. So think about what exactly it is that makes you nervous and then you can start putting a solution plan in place.

Meet Your Dentist Before a Procedure

You see your dentist for maybe an hour or two twice a year. It’s hard to trust and feel comfortable with anyone you don’t see on a regular basis. If you meet with your dentist before your planned appointment, you can get to know them on a personal level which helps many people intimidating when it comes time to get dental work done.

Bring Someone You Trust with You

Another way to help you feel more comfortable is to bring someone you trust to your dental visit. A good friend or family member can help you relax in the waiting room, cheer you on during the procedure, and help you feel safe and supported. Plus, then if you have serious work done you can have someone help you get home safely.

Incorporate Relaxation Techniques

There are several ways that you can help yourself relax at the dentist. You can try breathing and meditation techniques, wearing earbuds to listen to relaxing music, or pick something to mentally focus on like making your grocery shopping list or singing the lyrics to your favorite song. You can also try to schedule your appointment on a day you aren’t going to be dealing with other stress factors like a long day at work or fighting rush hour traffic. Bad timing can increase your dental anxiety.

Talk to Your Dentist About Your Fears

A good dentist understands dental anxiety is common and listens to your concerns to help you feel comfortable during your visit. At Tigard Family Dentist, we will work with you to make your experience as comfortable as possible. We will talk you through the procedure, show you any instruments we are going to use, and help you feel comfortable so you have an anxiety-free visit.

If you have been avoiding the dentist because of your dental anxiety, don’t worry, Tigard Family Dental is here to help! We’ve worked with several patients who have the same fears and anxieties and we will do whatever we can to make you feel safe and confident. So instead of avoiding the dentist, call us today.