It’s very common to feel nervous before you visit the dentist. We’re sure you won’t be surprised to hear that there’s nothing to be afraid of! But we know that this doesn’t necessarily calm you down at all.
However, we have come up with this list of 6 techniques that we do think would help you ease your nerves. We hope this helps!
- Take Some Deep Breaths: A little mindful breathing can go a long way to calm your nerves. When you get nervous, your breaths grow rapid and shallow. This sends your body a message that you’re in danger. Slowing down and deepening your breath communicates to your body that you’re safe.
- Communicate Your Concerns to Your Dentist: If you’re nervous, it’s never a bad idea to let your dentist know. Most dentists are used to dealing with anxious patients, and they may have techniques they use when helping tense patients.
- Give Yourself Time: If you can, plan your appointment after your responsibilities are over for the day, or during a day off. Knowing you have no pressing commitments right after your procedure can help you relax.
- Avoid Caffeine and Sugar: Many of us are used to drinking coffee every day without much thought, but you’d be surprised at how much it can affect you. The day of your dental procedure is a good one to skip the caffeine boost. Since sugar can have a similar effect, it’s good to try to reduce that as well. Instead, try to stay hydrated by sipping on water or calm your nerves with some caffeine-free herbal tea.
- Make it to Your Dental Appointments: If the dentist makes you nervous, you may try to avoid going. But that isn’t a good idea! Preventative care can avoid more intensive (and costly) procedures down the road.
- Ask Your Dentist to Explain (Or Not): You know yourself better than anyone. Some patients feel calmed by knowing what to expect during a procedure, while it would drive others crazy! Whichever camp you fall into, let your dentist know so they can explain what you can expect, or keep it to themself.
At Lone Tree Modern Dental & Orthodontics, we want to make sure all of our patients feel at ease during their procedures. If you’re undergoing a treatment like a filling, we’ll be sure to numb your mouth so you don’t feel any pain. Our dental professionals are also used to helping patients who have anxiety.