Oral hygiene is important, and regular visits to the dentist will keep your teeth healthy and strong. However, going to an appointment can make some people anxious. If you experience dental anxiety, follow these tips to calm yourself during your next visit.

How to Manage Dental Anxiety

1. Listen to Music

Focusing on music will distract yourself from stressful situations and ease anxiety during the appointment. It can give you something to think about that’s not the present moment and can cover up the noise of drills and picks, which are sounds that often induce anxiety. Talk to your dentist about what headphones are appropriate for the procedure and if you’ll be required to keep an ear open for requests.

2. Discuss Your Feelings

Tell the dental professionals about your apprehensions so that they can work around stressors to help you feel more comfortable. For instance, tell your dentist if you fear needles or drills and they can help keep those tools out of view and use them only when absolutely necessary. They can also tell you what they’re doing so that you understand the feelings and sensations.

3. Bring a Friend

Many dental specialists understand that a visit to the office can be intimidating and will allow a friend to accompany you into the examination room. Friends can provide a comforting distraction during treatment or simply provide a hand to hold during overwhelming moments.

4. Try Relaxation Techniques

Use meditation and breathing exercises to ease anxiety. Take slow, deliberate breaths and clear the mind to keep your heart from racing and promote relaxation throughout the body. Paying close attention to your breath will prevent you from focusing on dental tools and loud noises in the room.

5. Use Signals for Breaks 

If the inability to speak or inform your dentist of discomfort worries you, talk to them before the procedure and create a hand signal. Use it to let them know when you’re uncomfortable and need a break. This way, you can have a sense of control and always know there’s a way to stop treatment if necessary.

The experienced and compassionate dentists at Keiki Dental in Ewa Beach, HI, understand that anxiety can’t always be avoided. That’s why they provide multiple dental sedation options for nervous patients, such as inhalation, intranasal, and oral. Their board-certified oral hygienists and colorful offices will make you feel welcome from the moment you walk through the door until you’re on the way out. Learn more about how they can accommodate your unique needs online, or call (808) 680-9411 to schedule an appointment.