Dental phobia, also known as dental anxiety, keeps millions of Americans from visiting the Dentist office in Arlington TX or elsewhere every year. According to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine, dental phobia impacts 30 to 40 million Americans per year. People are afraid of the dentist because they associate dentists with pain. They then only go under extreme and painful emergencies. This reinforces the fear that all dentists and dental procedures cause pain. Here are some tips on how to reduce dental anxiety.
Get Someone Else To Drive
Many patients with dental phobia are so scared of going to a Dentist office in Arlington TX or elsewhere that they literally are too scared to drive. Getting someone else to do the driving to and from the dentist’s office helps reduce anxiety about driving, finding a place to park and driving back after a procedure has been done. Some people’s hearts race when given Novocain and so this adds to a feeling of panic. Having someone else drive reduces a lot of stress.
Distraction Is Good
Ever wonder why so many doctor and dentist offices have aquariums? This is because watching the fish swim about helps people to relax. The aquarium distracts patients, even momentarily, from their predicament of a looming dental appointment. Listening to music on headphones also helps to distract. Ask permission to wear the headphones in the dentist’s chair since the dentist may need to explain procedures to their patients. Explain that music helps alleviate dental phobia.
Take a Deep Breath
Taking a low, deep breath and releasing it slowly also helps to relieve anxiety. Many people like to tense all their muscles when inhaling and relaxing them while inhaling. Some people use aromatherapy oils known for making people relax, such as frankincense and lavender.
Talk to the Dentist
Tell the dentist or office staff of any fears or concerns. They deal with people suffering from dental anxiety every day and may have helpful tips for each individual patient they encounter. The dentist may ask many questions that might not have to do with teeth or gums. This is a helpful distraction for fearful patients.
In Conclusion
There is hope for people suffering from dental phobia. Many options are available so that the time in the dentist chair is time well spent in preventing tooth and gum disease. Contact Website for more information.
