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Being afraid of the dentist is a common fear that many people share, and some people only visit their dentist when they absolutely have to. But with a little bit of effort and understanding, you can overcome your phobia and regain control of your dental hygiene. To help you get started, Jeanne Rowland, DDS, in Milton, WI, has put together the following guide.

Why People Have Dental Phobias

dentistSome people are afraid of the dentist because of bad childhood experiences, leading them to believe that every dentist appointment will be similarly unpleasant. Others fear for lack of control and for not being able to see what’s going on. To make matters worse, if you already have a pre-existing anxiety disorder, a trip to your local dental office can trigger panic attacks.

Acknowledge Your Phobia

It’s natural and fairly common to feel a little uneasy at the dentist, but if your fear is preventing you from getting regular dental care, you might have a phobia. If your phobia is caused by the reasons listed above, or anything else, the first step to overcoming your fear is to acknowledge the problem. Get to the root of the cause and commit to taking action.

Take Action

Once you’ve identified the cause of your phobia, you can treat it accordingly. If the source of your concern is a troubling childhood experience, reassure yourself that it’s unlikely to happen again in the future, especially since dental technology is advancing every day. If you fear the lack of control, meet with your dentist beforehand so you can get to know the person behind the scrubs.

Worries aside, there is no better person you’d want working on your teeth than a well-trained dentist, and if you have the opportunity to discuss their qualifications and training, it will help put you at ease. If you have an anxiety disorder, consider meditating before your appointment or find other ways to appropriately cope with the stress. Simply being upfront with the dentist about your anxiety can work wonders, and you can agree to establish a non-verbal signal to communicate when you’re feeling uncomfortable during a procedure.

For gentle and professional dental care in Milton, WI, choose Jeanne Rowland, DDS. She and her qualified team have decades of experience, ensuring you and your family receive exceptional care, from routine exams to cosmetic dentistry. Visit her online or call (608) 868-4500 to make an appointment today.

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