Six Ways to Get Over Your Fear for Dentists

But for some it’s not that easy, right? We get it: the idea of a doctor working inside your mouth with all sorts of instruments and apparatus can be frightening. However, it’s important to learn how to overcome your fear of the doctor and dentist so that you can attend necessary appointments and checkups. There are many different ways to make your visit to the dentist less frightening and sometimes even enjoyable. Let’s show you.

Most people don’t go to their dentist for regular check-ups and only go when problems or pain arise. This isn’t ideal as regular check-ups are important. Why not look for a dentist Melbourne listings and reviews suggest, to find a dentist that others trust? He or she may help you too?

But for some it’s not that easy, right? We get it: the idea of a doctor working inside your mouth with all sorts of instruments and apparatus can be frightening. But there are many different ways to make your visit at the dentist less frightening and sometimes even enjoyable. Let’s show you.

What’s Dentophobia?

A fear of the dentist is quite common and the majority of people would prefer to avoid the dentist. Having a phobia for a dentist and the procedure isn’t the same as being afraid but still able to push through a procedure.

Dentophobia can put the patient in a state of shock and anxiety to the point of physical illness such as vomiting. People who suffer from dentophobia usually have phobias related to the dentist such as aichmophobia or trypanophobia.

Some patients even need to see a psychologist to manage and treat their fear and anxiety for dental procedures. Medication might be given to ease the stress and anxiety for these patients.

Aichmophobia & Trypanophobia

The extreme fear of needles or sharp objects is referred to as Aichmophobia. More than 30% of the population suffer from an intense fear of needles.

Having this phobia can make any medical procedure challenging for these individuals, as the fear of needles is more intense than the fear of dying due to a lack of blood or infection risks.

Trypanophobia refers to the fear of medical procedures that might include the use of needles. Symptoms of this condition include:

  • Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
  • Feeling intense pain by the prick of a needle and increased anxiety
  • Change in behaviour such as getting aggressive or overly emotional

Phobias connected to needles or medical procedures can be caused by different factors including:

  • Memories of painful procedures
  • Being influenced by someone with the phobia
  • Chemical levels in the brain that are not stable

Now that you understand the possible source of your fears, let’s look at some ways you can change dental visits from dreadful to manageable.

How to Handle Your Fear

Start with The Oral Hygienist

Book an information session with your oral hygienist before you start with any procedures with the dentist. Your oral hygienist can help you to feel less nervous and more informed.

Oral hygienists give information and techniques on hygiene of the teeth including:

  • Brushing techniques
  • Plaque revealing on the teeth
  • Product information
  • Polishing & scaling of teeth
  • Fluoride treatments

Gadgets & Fun Products

Not everything in the dental industry is scary. Try to embrace dental technology and have some fun with the newest products available to consumers. This will make you more excited about starting a good dental care routine at home and might also motivate you to see the dentist more often.

Some fun products available include:

  • Black Charcoal activated toothpaste.
  • Glow in the dark toothbrushes.
  • Plaque revealing chewing tablets.
  • Teeth whitening kits available from your dentist.
  • Wi-Fi video cameras that let you take pictures of your teeth or see microscopic decay and holes in your teeth. This is almost the same camera your dentist might use.

Go Often

It might sound crazy to go more regularly to a place you fear most. Going often will help keep your teeth in great condition, making your visits at the dentist less painful and less traumatic.

Getting used to simple procedures will make you more comfortable with your dentist and he or she can detect a problem before it turns into something that needs surgical intervention.

Start by going for oral examinations. Your dentist will take a few pictures & X-rays and talk to you about your teeth. Doing this twice a year might mean needle free visits in the future!

Select A Dentist Suitable for You  

Do your research and ask around before committing to a dentist. Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a dentist:

  • Environment: Go for a less clinical environment if you’re anxious about doctors. Some dentists play peaceful music during procedures or have a screen playing movies installed above patients’ headrest.
  • Personality: The most important part of your dentist is his or her expertise. But selecting a dentist with a warm, soft nature might ease your stress levels.
  • Schedule: Make sure the dentist will be willing to book out a longer appointment to give you time to calm your nerves.

Start Young

Take your children to the dentist before they turn three years of age. This will help them get used to the idea of a dentist. You may want to consider this pediatric dentist in Quantico, VA. It can also help you get over your own fears.

Comfort

Take something with you to your appointment that you can hold in your hand and squeeze whenever you feel nervous. A tension ball or a small stuffed animal with lavender essential oils might help you feel more at ease.

Conclusion

Following a few simple steps and selecting a dentist you feel comfortable with might change your whole outlook on dentistry. Don’t lose sleep—or rather teeth—over fear for your dentist! Once you start these habits you’ll be surprised at how easy it can be to go to the dentist without having anxiety.