Many people have a phobia, such as spiders or flying. If you are one of millions of Americans who fear visiting a dentist, there are ways to ease your anxiety. While it’s normal to feel apprehension before teeth extractions and root canal procedures, you should take steps to address it so it doesn’t affect your oral health.

5 Ways to Ease Your Dental Phobia

Explain Your Fears

Whether you feel apprehension about a dental procedure or your child is nervous about their first visit with a pediatric dentist, communication is vital to your comfort. Make the dental staff and dentist aware of your fears before your appointment so they can explain the process and possibly adjust their methods.

Bring a Friend

Having a trusted friend or family member nearby will provide a sense of familiarity. You even can request to have your companion present during your procedure. Choose someone who doesn’t share your dental phobia to avoid escalating your stress.  

Breathe

People who feel nervous tend to take irregular, shallow breaths that reduce oxygen intake and promote a panicked feeling. Take long, deep breaths and release them slowly to alleviate stress and ensure you’re receiving adequate airflow. The process will give you something to focus on besides your dental work.

Listen to Music

Create a playlist of soothing or upbeat songs to listen to through earbuds or headphones during your appointment. This tip is particularly helpful during fillings because the music will distract you from the sound of the drill.

Choose a Reward

To motivate you or your child to face your fears, find a way to treat yourself after your dental visit. Opt for a nice dinner after a teeth cleaning or a trip to the toy store after a pediatric dentist appointment. This will help fearful patients associate dental treatment with an enjoyable activity.

BridgeView Dental Group in Kodiak, AK, provides gentle oral health care to patients of all ages. From routine checkups and cosmetic procedures to teeth extractions and orthodontics, their general and pediatric dentists provide the treatments you need for a beautiful, healthy smile. They even offer sedation dentistry to patients who suffer from severe anxiety. Visit the practice online or call (907) 486-3257 to schedule an appointment. Check their Facebook page to stay up to date with the clinic.