Dental anxiety can cause you to put off important appointments with your dental professional. While the fear can be overwhelming, there are little things you can do to relieve the anxiety and make yourself comfortable enough to visit the dentist and get the care you need.
Research the Procedure
It may help to research the procedure you need to have done. While it may be scary at first, at least you will know what he will be doing and how long it will take for him to complete the work. It will also give you an idea of what you may see or hear during the procedure. It may be a little uncomfortable, but at least you will understand what is going on and it will calm your dental anxiety.
Talk to the Staff at Your Dental Office
Talk to the staff at your dental office. Tell your dentist or prosthodontist about your dental anxiety and ask him if there is anything he can do to help calm your nerves. In some cases, the dentist may talk to you throughout the entire procedure. This can take your mind off of what he's doing so he can finish the job quickly while you are pre-occupied with the conversation.
For those who have extreme dental anxiety issues, sedation dentistry may also be an option. Ask Dr. Bleeker if you are a good candidate for sedation. He can look over your chart to determine you might benefit from this type of service. While this isn't an option for everyone, it can be quite beneficial for individuals who suffer from panic and anxiety disorders.
Learn to Breathe
Learning to take deep, relaxing breaths is one way to calm your dental anxiety. Breathe slowly and carefully, concentrating on each breath. You can even create bubbles with your breath and fill them with your fear and anxiety. When you exhale send the bubbles on their way, taking your nervousness with them.
Discuss your dental anxiety and your concerns with your prosthodontist and he will help you to overcome them. Your relationship must be one of trust and confidence. Let them know how you feel so you can work through it together. Call Dr. Bleeker at (480) 306-8510 to schedule an appointment today!