Dental anxiety is common, which is why Stephen R Ho DDS talks with patients every day who are nervous about their appointments. Although Dr. Ho has mastered the art of helping anxious patients in Honolulu, HI, for the past 25 years, some people still struggle with irrational fears tied to dental offices. Here are three ways to overcome your fear of the dentist. 

3 Tips to Alleviate Dental Fears

1. Talk About Your Concerns

If you feel apprehensive about dental procedures, talk to the dentist about your feelings. Mention the different aspects of dentistry that put you on edge, such as the sounds or smells associated with regular visits. Often, dentists can adjust procedures to alleviate certain triggers for patients. 

2. Visit More Frequently

When you were a child, your parents may have encouraged you to continue doing what you were afraid of, and dental visits are no different. Confront your fears by scheduling regular appointments. This gives you the chance to enjoy a variety of different visits, instead of just the ones when serious work needs to be done. In fact, you might even find that more consistent appointments prevent complex procedures, saving you time, money, and anxiety. 

3. Consider Therapy 

Patients who struggle with severe fears about the dentist might benefit from cognitive behavioral therapy. During these appointments, psychologists will talk about your concerns and teach you coping mechanisms to prevent discomfort. In a study that followed patients with severe dental anxiety, people could undergo dental appointments without sedation after only five cognitive behavioral therapy sessions. 

If you struggle with an ongoing fear of the dentist, make your next appointment more relaxing by booking it with Stephen R Ho DDS. He works hard to offer personalized, ongoing dental care, which has earned him top reviews from residents in Honolulu. To read recent reviews or to learn more about his practice, visit his Yelp page and website or call (808) 949-4288.