If you are dreading visiting the dental doctor each time before the appointment, then you may be having dental anxiety.
The intensity of dental fear varies from individual to individual, and while some can control it, some need external sources to help them control the undesired emotions.
Dental anxiety is triggered for various reasons. Whether it’s the fear of needles, hospital ambience, having to expose your mouth, and being in a vulnerable state while the doctor examines you.
Ignoring dental care will result in issues that could worsen over time. It then becomes inevitable to visit an expert dentist to resolve your issues. Instead, addressing the fear and anxiety and taking steps to control it is the right way to deal with dental anxiety.
Understanding the causes of dental anxiety
- Fear of Pain
The thought and feel of needles and other instruments used in the dental office may cause you to fear resulting in anxiety. Also, dental treatments cause a lot of tooth pain, however, modern treatments are done under anesthetic conditions, so you don’t have to fear having pain.
- Previous Trauma
If you had an unpleasant experience in the past at the doctor’s office, then you may fear visiting the dental office again. It’s essential to discuss your concerns with the doctor before you go through the treatment.
- Loss of Control
When you are under the doctor's supervision, you may feel vulnerable as you don’t have any control over your body. The loss of control may make you anxious and you may try to avoid visiting the doctor again. Having an open mind and discussing with your doctor will help you ease your anxiety.
Strategies for conquering dental anxiety
- Communicate Your Anxiety
The first step to dealing with anxiety is recognising and accepting it. You will have to make sure that what you have is anxiety and should prepare to take the right action towards it.
Communicate your problem with your loved ones so that you get enough support. Make sure you have thorough guidance from your close ones so that you can get through the problem. If you don’t want to share the problem, you can at least talk to your doctor about your issues. You will get coping mechanisms about how to deal with anxiety. - Consider what you eat/drink
Your diet also plays an important role in keeping you stress-free. Avoid foods containing caffeine and stop drinking alcohol so that you have better control over your emotions. Keep your diet light and make sure to drink fluids so that your mind is always active. It also helps you feel rejuvenated. - Try relaxation therapy
To curb anxiety, you can try relaxation therapy which involves deep breathing exercises and muscle relaxation. You can also try to do meditation and exercise to help you gain control over your body fitness. With a light diet and moderate exercise, you can have better command over your body which indirectly helps your mind to be calm. You can also try listening to soothing music and melody songs to rest your mind.
If you don’t have an idea on how to start mediation and therapy, consult experts with the support of your closed ones. - Practice mindfulness
Be mindful of your actions so that you can have better control over your mind. Maintain discipline and follow a healthy routine so that you have a better lifestyle. Make sure you have a morning and night routine that helps increase your energy levels. Reading, journaling, writing, listening to motivational videos and gaining knowledge on dental medical treatments like teeth whitening will help you curb anxiety levels. The more you gain knowledge, the lessen the fear you will have.
Dental anxiety is a real thing and is common among people. While some have better control over it, others need a little push over their emotions. Identifying, talking, expressing, and taking action towards anxiety will help you get over the problem and deal with your dental issues with an open mind.
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