5 Keys to Keeping Cool: How to Avoid Being Anxious at the Dentist

Updated on June 9, 2020
Male dentist showing his female patient a dental implant in clinic

Are you worried about going to the dentist? You’re not alone in your fear of the dentist. 

Up to 10% of Americans have dental phobia. That’s when you have a fear of visiting the dentist for a check-up. 

However, an estimated 60% of people say that they experience anxiety when they’re at the dentist.

Going to the dentist regularly is important to maintain your oral health. However, if you’re not visiting your dentist because you get anxiety, you need to do something about this immediately.

Discover our 5 tips for dealing with anxiety around going to your dentist. Check out everything below!

1. Communicate Your Anxiety to Others

When you share your anxiety, you may find that you are surrounded by other people who identify with your suffering. This can help you cope with the stress of visiting the dentist better.

Remember, your dentist probably treats patients frequently who experience anxiety about going to the dentist. But, you can share your fears with a dental professional. They’ll help to ease your stress. Plus, if you go to a reputable dental clinic, you are likely to get the very best service; we’d recommend doing ample research or going with this experienced oral surgeon sarasota.

2. Focus on Controlling Your Breathing

When you’re nervous and anxious, you may find that you speed up your breathing or simply hold your breath. This can make your anxiety worse and cause you to panic.

You need to learn ways of controlling your breathing through mindfulness or listening to music. Just make sure you bring your headphones.

Have you recently had your wisdom teeth removed? Check out these 7 things to do after a Wisdom Teeth Removal.

3. Avoid Coffee Before the Dentist

Americans drink more coffee than ever before. However, you need to be careful drinking coffee before your appointment at the dentist.

Caffeine makes us more anxious. But, it’s also not helpful for dentists when they’re checking your teeth.

4. Select the Time Carefully

You decide when you book your dentist’s appointment. You don’t have to select a time immediately after work or early in the morning when you might be stressed.

Instead, pick a time when you can ensure that you’re feeling as calm and peaceful as possible. This can help you avoid serious anxiety when you visit the dentist.

5. Check Reviews First 

Do you always check reviews when you visit a restaurant or stay overnight in a hotel? You need to do the same for your dentist.

Up to 91 percent of people read online reviews. While most of us trust reviews, it’s important to remember to always check before you make an appointment.

You can also ask friends and colleagues at work before you visit your dentist. Knowing you have a great dentist is worthwhile.

How to Cope With Anxiety at the Dentist

Do you struggle to calm your nerves when you’re at the dentist? Are you always anxious on your way to getting a check-up?

Now you know how to prepare yourself before you visit the dentist for a check-up. It’s essential to overcome your stress and get your oral health checked.

Do you want to know more about how to stay healthy? Discover everything you need to know on our blog. 

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