If you ask people how they feel about going to the dentist, they’d most likely answer by saying they don’t like it. If there is a certain degree of fear that could be considered natural, elevated levels of anxiety can prevent people from making appointments and affect their oral health in the future. Below, Dr. Boals, a sedation dentist in Colorado Springs, CO, shares how to overcome the fear of the dentist.
Odontophobia, or fear of seeing a dentist, is a serious issue. Research has shown that 5-8% of Americans fully avoid the dentist out of fear, and another 20% have enough anxiety to seek care only when absolutely necessary. There are a variety of reasons why fear can occur, but some of the most common are the loss of control, discomfort, humiliation, or past experience.
Although the level of fear varies from person to person, there are a few common things you can do to help ease your mind.
Find the Best Dentist in Colorado Springs, CO
One of the easiest ways to conquer the fear of seeing a dentist is to find a dentist you can trust. It might take some time, but it’s worth it. While you can look to family and friends for advice or read feedback online, it’s important to note that everyone’s experiences (and expectations) are different. Try to give the dentist a call – if you’re comfortable talking to them on the phone, you may want to make an appointment to see them and get a feel for the office.
Communicate Your Fears
If you don’t let the dentist know of your worries, they’re not going to be able to work through them and help you feel more relaxed. Communication is everything! By being transparent and frank with your concerns in the process, it will help ensure that the right steps will be taken to resolve them.
Bring a Family Member of Friend
If you’re a family member friend, having someone to accompany you to your appointment will make you feel more comfortable. It serves as an additional layer of assurance. You’re best to bring someone who has no fear of their own. Dr. Leeson, a restorative dentist in St. Pete, FL, recommends planning your appointment early in the morning so that you don’t waste time living stuff in advance during the day.
Don’t Worry
From stress balls to music to breathing exercises, there are a variety of “distractions” that you can use to keep your mind focused on something other than your fears. Even something as easy as watching a good movie or a video will help! At our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO, we make our patients’ comfort and safety our top priority. Our staff is warm and welcoming, and our dental office is filled with facilities that make your stay comfortable and enjoyable.
You can unwind in the lobby with refreshments from our beverage station while your kids play and explore the children’s playground. TVs, headphones, and Hulu streaming via our operators can make you feel at home, even during your treatment. Hot scented towels and pillows will help you relax, and we also give nitrous oxide to patients suffering from dental anxiety or phobias. If you’re out of dental care because you’re scared of the dentist, we promise to change your mind about going to the dentist.
Reward Yourself
Overcoming dental anxiety is a huge deal. If you do, treat yourself! Buy something good for yourself or go on a weekend getaway. Not only is it a fantastic reward, but it’s also going to help you relate your trips to something enjoyable and exciting.
Dr. Boals and our team at Kissing Camels Family Dentistry are genuinely concerned for our patients and want your experience to be enjoyable and optimistic. You’re going to forget that you were anxious to step through the gates! You can also interrupt the treatment any time you feel uncomfortable or need a break. Don’t ignore your oral health – make the appointment at our dental office in Colorado Springs, CO!