Dental anxiety is very common. It might be due to an unpleasant experience at a dentist in the past. Whatever the cause, anxiety about the dentist can make it challenging to keep up with biannual cleanings or other treatments. Is it possible to overcome your fear? Here are some tips:
Schedule Your Appointment on an Open Day
Going to the dentist on a busy day can amp up your fear. You don’t want to feel rushed or burdened by stress related to other tasks. If possible, schedule your appointment on a day that’s fairly open. More free time lets you do things that help your anxiety before and after your visit. If you find that your anxiety actually improves on a busier day because you have less time to think about the dentist appointment, that’s fine, too! Anxiety is different for everyone.
Acknowledge & Talk About Your Anxiety
Acknowledging that your anxiety is real is an important step. Many people try to suppress their fear in the hope that it will go away, but that rarely works. Accept that it’s there and take steps that make it easier to handle. Talking to our team about your anxiety is also very helpful. We’re very familiar with dental anxiety and want to do what we can to make things easier and comfortable for you. Our office offers sedation dentistry – nitrous oxide and oral conscious sedation – along with DentalVibe, which is a tool that makes our sedation procedures pain-free.
Bring a Trusted Person with You
Many people find their anxiety decreases when they have someone with them. Ask a trusted family member or friend if they can take a few hours out of their day and help you out. That might involve driving you to the appointment and picking you up, waiting with you until your appointment starts, or sitting with you in the exam room if necessary.
Comfortable Dental Care at High Point Dentistry
Dr. Kong and the team understand how common dental anxiety is, so we won’t judge or shame anyone. Our top priority is providing high-quality, comfortable care to every patient, including ones who struggle with fear. If you have any questions about our approach to dental anxiety or want to book an appointment, please contact the office that’s closest to you in Elgin, Schaumburg, or Palatine.
