Calming your Dental Anxiety

Bloomsburg, Danville, and Lewisburg, PA

Feeling anxious about going to the dentist is quite common. People can be fearful of visiting the dentist for a variety of reasons – traumatizing past experiences, fear of the unknown, or fear of pain. Whatever the reason may be, don’t let it hold you back from receiving the dental care that you need. Trust us, ignoring a dental issue will not make it go away. Instead, it exacerbates your problem. Here are some tips for calming your dental anxiety so that you can get the oral care that you need.

Ask Questions

Some patients simply fear the unknown. There is no better way to nip that fear in the bud than to ask questions. Meet with your dentist before you undergo any procedure and find out what to expect for your upcoming procedure. Ask questions about what your procedure will entail, and what to expect for the recovery. Receiving answers to your questions will hopefully help you feel confident in your procedure and ease your fears.

Express How You Feel

Your Bloomsburg dentist strives to make you feel comfortable throughout your entire procedure. But, let your dentist know if at any point you become uncomfortable or experience any discomfort. Your dentist can pause the procedure, allowing you time to gain composure and take measures to make your procedure more comfortable. Avoid jerking your head, closing your mouth, or making sudden movements in an attempt to alert your dentist, as this could result in an injury. Instead, raise your hand carefully to alert the dentist.

Appointments and Timing

If you are already feeling anxious about an upcoming procedure, be sure to schedule it on a day that you will not have to be rushed to return to work or resume your usual activities. Instead, choose a time of day like early in the morning, so that you can get in, be seen, and move on with your day. That way, you will not have to toil over your appointment while waiting for it all day.

Distract Yourself

If you are feeling anxious, bring something to distract your mind. Music is a good way to recenter your focus and calm your mind. Most everyone has a smartphone these days, so bring some earbuds with you, and you can relax your mind by listening to some of your favorite tunes. Relaxing music will also help you maintain a positive attitude. At Hamilton Dental Care, we also have ceiling mounted televisions that can display soothing pictures to help you relax.

Bring a Support Buddy

Sometimes, just having someone you know and trust with you makes going through an unnerving experience a little easier. If you need to, invite a trusted friend or family member to accompany you to your appointment.

Dental Care in Bloomsburg

Going to the dentist does not have to be a scary experience. The best course of action if you are anxious about dental appointments is to take good care of your teeth by brushing twice a day and flossing daily. That way you can hopefully avoid the need for extensive dental work.

To learn more about oral health or to schedule an appointment, contact Hamilton Dental Care by calling (570) 387-0533.

Hamilton Dental Care is here to serve patients in the communities of Bloomsburg, Danville, and Lewisburg, PA.